What is ‘now’? - The predominant question which invigorated the designers and lectures at Fashion Net Education Centre Düsseldorf -24.07.11.
Our first performer - Gabriele Skach, Head of Fashion Design at the Fashion College Schloss Hetzendorf, Vienna. Although the lecture was mainly about the five year courses offered (such as dressmaking, knitwear, product design and an array of others) there was a strong insinuating message. What is happening around us and how can we draw inspiration from contemporary art, music and simple day-to-day activities, a process described as ‘converting the moment’. Competition in fashion is a major issue, yet to stand out and be the best, one must ‘think outside the box’ by observing what is going on and reflecting this in ones work (learning by doing may also be an extensive part of this process). All these vital aspects are taught and encouraged at the University, which we thought sounded like a fascinating experience and wonderful place to study at. An engrossing performance with a highly recommendable website: www.modeschulewien.au
Our second performer - Lisa Novak a graphic designer and publisher, based in south east London (to my delight- someone to relate to! ☺). Her career had first begun with her wish to become a designer yet this soon transferred into her realising that publishing was the way to go, due to her obsession with collecting books. She is now currently working on a project to promote ‘creative talents, arts and communities.’ in the south east of London, a creative area which has always suffering from snobbery. We are eagerly awaiting the release of the first issue! For more information: www.southeastzine.co.uk
The third performer -Sophie Skach, a young designer and student who’s creativity is inspired by her love for mathematics. Although at first it appeared she was unsure of her presentation, without doubt the seemingly never ending equations which magically turned into a pair of cord trousers, was the most remarkable thing I have ever heard of. Possibly due to my little knowledge (and hatred) of mathematics the vast contrast combined to create such beautiful pieces absolutely enthralled me. We would also like to congratulate on the Tokyo fashion week success and hope to hear more in future: www.sophieskach.com
Our fourth performance - a collaboration by two young designers Lena Krampf and Ida Steixner for the label Meshit. Their name derived from ‘mash it’ (suggesting their interest in contemporary events and mixing these ideas to create their collections) has already been featured by the notorious label Topshop, a huge success for such a young brand. Their latest collection autumn/winter 2011/12 was inspired by heavy metal and rock bands and combining this with soft, long dresses and edgy prints. We enjoyed hearing about the development of their brand and the ideas behind it. We wish them the best of luck! For further information and to view the collections: www.meshit.at
Our fifth performer - the editor of online magazine Vangardist, Mirza Sprecakovic. Unlike ordinary magazines, Vangardist is very unique as it specialises in ‘Men, who like Men’, as their slogan states. Before launching the magazine he worked as a freelance stylist and therefore has a strong understanding of fashion which is clearly visible throughout the magazine. Proudly presenting some of his previous editorials, the love and enthusiasm put into his work was evident and we too thought it was truly inspiring! We especially admired the ‘dare to be different’ yet ‘be yourself’ attitude as being gay is sadly still a delicate subject in our modern society, which makes the magazine feel so exclusive and special. We shall be keeping up with further issues: www.vangardist.com
Our sixth performer- another collaboration by two designers Helga Schania and Hermann Fankhause for their label ‘Wendy & Jim’. Created in 1992, the label can be bought in concept stores all over the world (Hong Kong, London, New York, Paris etc) and has been featured in exhibition halls, their stall (in shape of a tipi) once being next to Prada’s! Their joint love for Indians and cowboys has given them a motif which although they describe their style as ‘dry’ and ‘slow’, is edgy with an interesting perspective. Although the label has proven popularity, the designer couple have decided to keep it small as they do not want to end up being ‚mainstream’. We loved their 2012 spring/summer campaign and are already saving up for their underwear collection ‘hell’ ! www.wujsympathisant.com
Sadly our last (second last of the day) performer- the rising star and designer Peter Pilotto. Already familiar with his work (and a big fan too), I was star-struck when he got on stage with his very down to earth, London-style look. I had first encountered his label on my expedition to the beautifully old fashioned department store ‘Liberty’s’ in London (http://www.liberty.co.uk/) and acquired further knowledge of the brand as celebrities (such as Rhianna!) started wearing it. The brief yet compelling insight into the labels background left us wanting to know more. To our delight (and his, I am sure) he will be presenting his collection at the London Fashion Week this September. We are still overwhelmed that we were able to meet him and are eagerly awaiting his performance at the upcoming fashion week! http://www.peterpilotto.com/
