Serpent and the Swan MBFWA

I viewed the Serpent and the swan collection during fashion week and was really immersed into the collections aesthetic. The collection challenges the aesthetic of conventional fashion trend through imbuing a sense of self. The range is inclusive of leather shirts and jackets to mesh pieces.

Transition // Industrial Revolution

The framework of this collection was derived from elements of the Industrial revolution. The collection focuses on the transition to new materials and explores the use of metal fastenings that were prominent at the time which have been integrated into the design as ornamental embellishments. The collection fixates the past, re-framing historical resurgence as a desire for authenticity and nostalgia.

The industrial revolution marked the transition to powered machinery; the textile industry flourished allowing for innovative fabric production. This was a vital historical movement that assisted the fashion industry, the collection draws parallel to this notion of ‘new’ usages for materials. Buckles and toggles have been employed as design foundations in turn creating a distinctive aesthetic appeal. The era’s highly structured silhouettes have been translated into the collection featuring built up necklines and textured fabrications depicting the materials that were used at the time. Waxed cotton in combination with embellished leather pieces have been incorporated into the designs.

Creative Team

Photographer - Amy Hibbard

Designer - Tanu Vasu

Make-up / Hair - Cherry Cheung

Model - Rachel Cross

Introducing 'The Changeover' shoes collection...

Inspired by futuristic themes 'The Changeover' range features contemporary elements whilst retaining an artisanal sensibility brought about through the use of delicate hand cut leathers and sculpted rock formations as notions for the shoes. The Changeover draws a parallel to space age themes through he range of motifs showcased within the designs. From flamboyant boots to heat activated stilettos the range focuses on a number of aspects putting an emphasis on futurism and art.

The Interim

Designer Tanu Vasu

Photographer Daniela Raiti 

Hair//Make-up Sanja Jovic

Model Leah Brown

Artistic Practises and Jewellery; Selda Okutan

Whilst in Istanbul I came across many talents but one amazing artist in particular caught my eye. Selda Okutan, a jewellery designer with the use of personal motifs and intriguing themes for her collections. Every piece is created by hand especially for the customer in turn making the item more personal. 

Okutan has reflected on aspects of her life and created her artistic collection through storytelling and sculptural elements. Each piece correlates with her life experiences, the themes explored are unique and heighten the beauty of the pieces. The jewellery is extremely intricate and delicate, I was fascinated by the precision and focus on detail within the pieces. I was privileged  to meet Selda and speak to her about her jewellery and see where her inspiration is derived from, this alone allowed me to have a unique bond with her artistic practises. The idea of personal reflection within her practises really intrigue me, concepts revolving around love, goodness, our place in the world, familial relationships and acceptance; all aspects we practise ourselves are the focal point of her magnificent collections. 

To view her work: www.seldaokutan.com 

Melbourne...

The Melbourne art scene is one amongst my favourites, graffiti alleyways, unique art codes through the city and buildings designed with a modern aesthetic contrasted with the gold-rush architecture style. The city is buzzing with arts, culture and cafes along the Yarra river are some of my favourite spots to dine and capture the city. Chapel street is infamous for it's range of shops inclusive of unique stationary stores selling items from one-off greeting cards to magic trick kits to designer fashion. St Kilda markets are a must for arts and craft enthusiasts whilst the Chapel St bazaar is a must for antique collectors. The national Gallery of Victoria always has a range of fascinating exhibitions be sure to check whats on during your stay. Brother baba budan is one of my favourite places to enjoy a coffee the atmosphere is relaxed with surreal interiors. The celling features a numbers of chairs hanging above as you. Head over to Five and Dime bagels to have a typical New York style breakfast, they will not disappoint. As for fashion Assin on Little Collins St features many modern looks that will provide you with a raw look for the Melbourne streets.  

Jacket: Tanu Vasu 'The newschool'

Pants: Tanu Vasu 'Balance'

Hat: Tanu Vasu leather baseball cap 

"Style is the substance of the subject called unceasingly to the surface" Victor Hugo