Christopher Kane’s Pre-Fall 2016 collection was inspired by elements and design features he had used previously from past collections: Graduate collection 2006, S/S 2011, S/S 2013, A/W 2013 & A/W 2014.

This photograph is a dress from Kane’s SS13 collection, made using gaffer tape and bright coloured fabrics like organza, influenced slightly by punk, to give a ‘Frankenstein’ vibe to his collection. I think this image and collection is showing a contrast of hard and soft in both colour and material within the garments. Perhaps to contrast the typical feminine silhouette and style of cocktail dresses with something more abnormal and abstract to give his collection his own personal flare and to perhaps push the boundaries of femininity in silhouettes and garments. These are elements I am glad he took into his Pre-fall 2016 collection as he once again plays around with bold colours and materials whilst creating some more androgynous silhouettes; similar to the style of David Bowie and general 60’s/70’s fashion. He may be playing with symbolism; materials symbolising how traditional views of style and clothing are barely being held together and are being torn apart by modern, groundbreaking designers such as him. In conclusion, I think the way in which Christopher Kane uses old design features in new inventive ways is very inspirational and something I admire about his work and as it can be hard to do so without making your collections look identical. I also love his play on colour and materials which I enjoy doing in my own work.

 

Bibliography

[1] Mower S.(2016) Vogue: Pre-Fall 2016 Christopher Kane, available from: https://www.vogue.com/fashion-shows/pre-fall-2016/christopher-kane [accessed 31st October 2017]

[2] Blanks T. (2012), Vogue: Spring 2013 Ready-To-Wear Christopher Kane, available from: https://www.vogue.com/fashion-shows/spring-2013-ready-to-wear/christopher-kane/slideshow/collection#38 [accessed 31st October 2017)