2009 fashion-related thread

last SG · 2009-04-30T23:33:21+00:00

Origins’ recycling initiativeNothing wasted, everything can be reused. The idea isn’t new, but Origins are now allying it with their own ambitions. The bran...

Bangulzai SG

The billion-dollar woman
Jacqui Lang

Photograph by Harold David. Styled by Tamila Purvis.

Bangulzai SG

Emanuel Ungaro presents the ‘Hand Made’ shirt by Franck Bouclet

The hand made shirt by Franck Boclet for Emanuel Ungaro

Franck Boclet is inspired by “the ancient tradions of master tailors”. The artistic director for men’s collections at the fashion house Ungaro since 2007 has leapt back into the past with an exceptional shirt that is custom-made.

Designed by Italian designers, the shirt sports high quality materials, “from double twisted cotton to Sea Island cotton, without forgetting 100% silk and Egyptian combed cotton/linen”, explained the fashion house.

Buttonholes, buttons, collar and cuffs, English fashioned sleeves… Franck Boclet hasn’t skimped on the details, everything is done by hand. As for the price, one of these shirts is available from €350.

The icing on the cake, it’s even possible to order the shirt of your dreams at the label’s boutiques in Paris and New York.

A range of a hundred and ten materials combined with “multiple personalisations” such as “embroidered initials and ties and pocket squares in the same material” amongst others will allow gentlemen to be as demanding as they can be and, at the same times, as stylish as possible.

By Jonathan Fulwell (Source: Julie Mangaud)

Bangulzai SG

Hyères 2009 won over by Latvian pair

The years pass by and bring with them a wide variety of events. The only constant in the world of fashion is creativity, and this year men’s collections have seen more creativity than usual. At the 24th ‘Festival International’ of fashion and photography at Hyères (from 24 to 27 April 2009), it was Marite Mastina and Rolands Peterkops from Latvia who walked off with three awards, including the coveted Grand Prix Mode.

Creations of Marite Mastina and Rolands Peterkops, Grand Prix Mode 2009

Their mixed collection “Private Detective” was inspired by the clothes seen in film noir. Models took up the most overused stereotypical symbols of the genre: the detective’s raincoat, the sexy dress of the heroine, the spy’s coat… Like an exaggerated drawing, certain proportions of the clothes had been distorted and accentuated and each of the outfits came with a large wig. Between role playing, black humour and cartoons, the feel of the collection was one of surrealism.

It was very much appreciated, the collection by Marite Mastina and Rolands Peterkops also won the Grand Prix Mode L’Oréal Professionnel and the Prix1.2.3. The reward for each, a grant of €15,000, but also help with make-up and hair-styling for their future catwalk from the cosmetics giant which gives its name to one of the prizes. Furthermore, the pair will receive help with the production of a ready-to-wear clothing line.

Designs from Harald Lunde Helgesen on the right and Simon-Pierre Toussaint on the left

As for Simon-Pierre Toussaint (from Belgium), he won both the Prix du Public and the Prix Crystallized Swarovski Elements, sharing the latter with Harald Lunde Helgesen (from Norway); both designers had developed men’s outfits.

Installation of fifteen images by Linus Bill, 2008

Finally, fashion photography is not slacking with a similar remarkable level of creativity on display. From the ten shortlisted photographers it was Linus Bill (from Switzerland) who received the Grand Prix de la Photographie.

A compulsive photographer, Bill photographs everything, all the time. Family and friends, strangers, interiors, exteriors, real life, still life, spontaneous, planned out… No theme or criteria preside over his shooting. Recent photos join older ones in his archives, we he draws from to create a group for an exposition or publication. Each of the images are reproduced on a large silk screen, giving his photos a painting like quality which is unique to each of them.

By Jonathan Fulwell (Source: Céline Vautard)

Bangulzai SG

Swarovski moves into horology

Swarovski is expanding into the horological sector. Presented at an advance preview in Bale, the first collection is no half measure, consisting of forty-five models in various shapes and innovative designs. The range proves once again that Swarovski is not lacking in daring.

Octea Line

Round, rectangular or square, inlaid with Swarovski crystal or more simple, engraved faces or in the chronometer style, men’s and women’s, sporting or casual, wristband in steel or leather, some covered in crystals… It can be seen, the collection is so vast as to be able to appeal to a large audience drawn from men and women of all ages.

Baguette Line

Grouped into five families, including the Baguette will be released in a limited edition and numbered at the 2009 Cannes Film Festival, Piazza or OCTE, itself split into OCTE Sport, Mini or Lady, all models have a quartz movement "Swiss Made" and a sapphire crystal. A necessity for the brand. Because if some watches have already crossed over into the the world of jewellery it is with this first collection that Swarovski will make its entry into watchmaking. Stamping ”Swiss Made” onto its models allows Swarovski to assure customers of its legitimacy, and that they push all the boundaries of their expertise.

The highlight of this collaboration: "D Light", is a watch which goes completely against typical Swiss models. Goodbye designs from grandpa’s era, Swarovski transports us to the end of the twenty-first century. Dynamic and futuristic, it also offers new and graphic perspectives on what can be used to dress your wrists.

D Light de Swarovski

Made from quality steel, gold or silver, the is much more than a bracelet with machine which tells you the time. From first sight one is captivated by its rectangular screen covered in 171 Swarovski crystals which, at the touch of a button, light up; the crystals sparkle and, by turning red, gives the time. No moving hands then, nor an indication of date but a simple indication of the time. A feat of design which doesn’t hide new technology; Swarovski has been studying the mechanisms for several years now.

As for the price, the collection has been planned for every budget, though you’ll need between €400 and €1400 for the D-Light. The watched will be available in Swarovski boutiques, department stores and, a novelty, the crystal manufacturer has invited several top of the range timepiece retailers to distribute its collections as well.

By Jonathan Fulwell (Source: Emilie-Alice Fabrizi)

Bangulzai SG

Hermès considers sales on mobile phones

At the same time as the deployment of online shopping, Hermès is considering necessary technology adaptations to sell on internet capable “smart phones”. “The technology is developing very quickly. We must take advantage. Demonstrating items on mobile telephones needs, for example, the enlargement of the format of the photos”, explained Charles Henri Leroy, director of client relations who oversees marketing, services offered in stores and personal services.

Hermès Sandals available on Hermes.com

The epitome of French luxury and defendant of artisanal know-how, Hermès has nonetheless been pioneering, selling ties, handkerchiefs and perfumes on the Internet since 2002 in the USA. It was not until March 2008 that the fashion house opened its institution’s own site though. A “reverse path” compared to other luxury brands, observed Charles Henri Leroy, “adhering to the strategy of Jean-Louis Dumas and his son Pierre Alexis, who, from the start, saw the Net as a means of supplying a supplementary service to clients and a tool to recruit new ones who, without which, would not have access to the products, the brand not being present in their country”.

As for the institutional site, Hermès has waited until technology permitted, through the quality of photos and videos, to show all the facets of the label and its history. After America, sales sites have been opened in the principal countries of Europe, Switzerland and since last year in Australia and Japan. The price is based on current market prices and available products that are sold has been gradually enlarged, with differences by country: the American site is the richest in leather products and offers watches, whereas the French sells jewellery.

Coming soon, ready-to-wear men’s wear and, why not, ladies’ fashion. “We have no taboos. It’s like in our real boutiques, each director has his own selection”, though always with “multi-channel continuity” between what is available on the web and in stores.

Bangulzai SG

With the international fashion entourage rolling into town for the first-ever Audi Fashion Festival in May, we check out the up-and-coming designers in the region. By Baey Shi Chen

Asian fashion has been on the rise, with über talents like Jun Takahashi from Undercover, Thakoon and Andrew Gn leading the way. Hot on their heels is the new vanguard, already developing a distinct identity and proving that their work is not only fashion forward but technically on par with international counterparts.
To promote the latest crop of Asian labels in the region, Blueprint will be teaming up with champions of local and regional fashion BlackMarket for an exclusive show at the Audi Fashion Festival. Quincy Teofisto, co-owner of BlackMarket, says, “We want to showcase the emerging talent as a cohesive force rather than [make it] a competition of greatness.” So, with a stellar assembly of creative energy storming the runway, expect nothing but the hippest threads at the show. Here’s a preview.

Elohim by Sabrina Goh, Malaysia
Having honed her designing chops at the LASALLE-SIA College of the Arts and coming in as a finalist at the Singapore Young Designer Contest in 2006 and 2007, Malaysian talent Sabrina Goh (www.sabrinagoh.com) is on her way to becoming a frontrunner in the industry with her tasteful and minimalist creations.
Goh says, “I hope to achieve fullness of creativity in each of my collections and wow people with unexpected fashion.” Inspired by the androgynous look and incorporating innovative interpretations of structure and form, Goh’s Autumn/Winter ’09 Collection for ELOHIM, Control Freak, references the obsessive compulsive in you through the use of features such as side-release buckles to transform silhouettes. Also look out for unusual and interesting uses of color, tailoring and different textures in the form of matte and shiny fabrics to bring out striking contrasts.

Gian Romano, Philippines
A Central Saint Martin’s alumnus with an apprenticeship at New York’s progressive design collective Three Asfour (formerly known as Asfour) under his belt, Gian Romano (www.gianromano.com) looks set to create waves in the fashion world. With an emphasis on form, cut and concept that verges on the architectural, he proves that fashion is more than just mere design with his experimental approach.
Describing his unique sexless style as “urban warrior-meets-Mad Max” and interested in contributing sustainable and attainable designs to the industry, Romano drew inspiration for his latest collection from the idea of a nomad fighting the cold of an urban winter. Expect an intriguing lineup of heavily layered and cocooned looks with dramatically accentuated silhouettes in the wintry greys, purples and neutrals. What’s more, Romano’s trademark of displaced seams, constructed through a unique quilting technique, also adds layered folds and ridges to his creations.

Nikicio by Nina Nikicio, Indonesia
Taking on the theme of war in her latest collection, Jakarta-born Nina Nikicio (www.nikicio.com) reflects the opposing but inextricably entwined feelings of love and hate in her pieces. Committed to creating inventive and enduring work that is trend-resistant, the LASALLE-trained designer teams classic cuts with high-end constructions in all her collections to create a style that she describes as “neat, personal and unpredictable.“
Her latest offering is no different, with her signature tailoring and loose comfortable fits clearly evident. Incorporating idiosyncratic details such as cat-prints on a fitted suit and sneaker-inspired 12-centimeter ankle boots, she is at her quirky best. Moreover, with hidden details such as pockets on double-collared shirts and witty pieces such as reversible blazers and six-armhole tees, this refreshing collection will definitely create a buzz at the festival.

Reckless Ericka, Singapore
Adventurous and unconventional, homegrown label Reckless Erika (www.recklessericka.com) promises to be the next big thing with its exuberant designs. A creative partnership formed by four individuals, the label’s creations have an Euro-centric aesthetic that focuses on balancing classic tailoring with more avant-garde details and silhouettes for added edge. This has found its way into Brit Kid goes to India, the label’s Autumn/Winter ’09 collection.
An irreverent mish-mash of layers and vibrant colors with a lineup of cut-out tops, layered cropped jackets and Union-Jack inspired pieces, the kooky collection embodies a zany sense of fun that echoes the melding of cultures. If that’s not enough, silk-screened leggings and kitschy accessories such as turban-like headgear are thrown into the mix to complete a look of batty chic.

Stella Rissa, Indonesia
One of the fastest-rising stars in the fashion scene, Stella Rissa (www.stellrissa.com) already has several achievements to her name. A graduate of the LASALLE College International School, she was awarded The Best Young Designer Special Award by Indonesia’s Cleo Magazine and has showcased her work to impressive reviews at the Indonesian Designer’s Kaleidoscope as well as Malaysia International Fashion Week 2008.
Always interested in the amalgamation of two seemingly contrasting elements and known for her glamorous and lively designs, Rissa will be presenting her cruise collection at the show. Evoking a light and casual mood, Rissa’s pieces are made of linen, twill cotton and lycra rayon that are teamed with leather application and unpredictable construction pleats. Mature and mellow in style, the collection will definitely make an impression on savvy fashionistas in the crowd. Rissa says, “I hope I can fill the passion of all people who hunger for fashion.”
The Blueprint show is on May 7, 11pm. $10.

Other shows not to be missed:
Christian Lacroix Couture Spring/Summer 2009 Opening Gala
Expect nothing less than a show-stopping spectacle from the master couturier. With an exhibition of his work as a costumier at the National Museum already creating a frisson of excitement among the high fashion glitterati, Lacroix’s couture collection, rarely shown outside Paris, is guaranteed to set the hearts of ardent couture devotees racing. To top it all off, leading British supermodel Jacquetta Wheeler will be walking the runway for Lacroix.
May 6, 7pm. $400 (gala dinner and show).

Gareth Pugh Autumn/Winter 2009
A daring collection with a heavy macabre Goth-rock influence, it made its debut at Paris Fashion Week, and local Gareth Pugh fans will be the first in the world to see it on the runway after that. What’s more, his menswear collection will also be unveiled as part of his Singapore show. The multi-talented Pugh will also be teaming up with Matthew Stone for an exclusive one-night-only DJ showcase at Zouk’s Velvet Underground for the after party.
May 7, 7pm. $20 (show only) and $60 (show and cocktails). Gareth Pugh’s DJ set with Matthew Stone starts at 11pm. Admission for non-members is $20
(with two drinks). Velvet Underground,
17 Jiak Kim St., 6738-2988.

Marc by Marc Jacobs Spring/Summer 2009
Fans of Marc Jacobs be warned: Irresistibly wholesome all-American style will be hitting the local runway, courtesy of Jacobs’ highly coveted diffusion line. One of the most influential and prolific designers in the international fashion industry, the master of grungy laid-back cool turns his hand to conjuring fashion magic again with a youthful and fun collection.
May 8, 9pm. $20.

Vivienne Westwood Anglomania Closing Show
Another show that we’ll definitely be catching is Vivienne Westwood’s Anglomania. Westwood’s latest ready-to-wear collection promises to deliver her iconic punk-rock aesthetic, with designs that are audacious, energetic and deliciously incongruous. Expect a spirited play on shape and volume, with artfully dishevelled looks comprising soft pastel knits and wools mixed with mad prints. Prim and proper pinstripes are also given a sexy edge with slashed tailoring. In case you find that a tad too sedate, Westwood throws in bold tights and seriously fierce boots to create that bonafide punk princess look. What could be a better way to end the festival?
May 10, 7pm. $20 (show only) and $60 (show and cocktails).

All shows are held at [email protected], Ngee Ann City, 391 Orchard Rd. Tickets are available to the public online at www.tdc.sg or via Tickets.com hotline at 6296-2929. MasterCard cardholders enjoy 10 percent off ticket prices for all shows.

Bangulzai SG

Inditex signs licensing contract with Hello Kitty

Sanrio, the Japanese company which owns the imaging rights of the most famous kitten in the world, Hello Kitty, has signed a licensing contract with clothing giant Inditex. Resulting from this agreement will be Hello Kitty collections by Zara.

At the end of April the little Kitty’s face, which was launched in Japan more than 30 years ago, will not only make its debut at Zara’s ready-to-wear clothing stores, but also on objects for Zara Home.

Sales of Hello Kitty products, which decorate around 50,000 items in sixty countries across the world, represent half of Sanrio’s annual turnover.

By Jonathan Fulwell (Source: Sarah Ahssen)

Bangulzai SG

Hello Kitty in Scottish tartan for 35th birthday

TOKYO, June 10, 2009 (AFP) - Hello Kitty, the Japanese-made global icon of cuteness, will mark her 35th birthday this year by going back to her British roots with a new tartan collection, her makers said Wednesday 10 June.

Kitty, of Hello Kitty, and family
Sanrio Co. will launch the checkered-pink series -- featuring handbags, trinkets, a shawl and a Kitty version of a teddy bear -- in September in Japan ahead of her official birthday on November 1.

The British embassy in Tokyo on Wednesday 10 June threw an early party for the feline with the trademark ribbon who, according to the Kitty legend, lives in suburban London.

Yuko Yamaguchi, the Hello Kitty designer since 1980, said the British capital was chosen as the feline's home because "London was the place Japanese girls admired in the 1970s."

Britain was a nation of fairy tales for Japanese girls who read "Alice in Wonderland" and the "Tale of Peter Rabbit," she said.

Since her 1974 debut, Kitty has spawned a massive global industry with sales of some 50,000 Kitty products in 70 nations, including dolls, clothes, accessories and homeware.

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