Today, Feb 15th, Fashion designer/textile designer Mary Katrantzou and Topshop released the completed look book for their 2012 spring collaboration, which is part of Topshop’s exclusively designed capsule collection. The collection is filled with colorful, fun, floral prints. The line is a good combination of dressy slash conservatively. Printed with Mary Katrantzou’s beautiful floral works, the line is comprised of simple and lovable bowl dresses, sleeveless button down shirts, chiffon scarfs, and leggings. With the prices ranging from, seventy-five dollars to six hundred dollar, it will be interesting to see what the different buyer responses will be. By offering varied prices, styles and silhouettes, Topshop and Mary Katrantzou are making a great statement. This small limited 10-piece collection is hitting Topshop stores on February 17th.

“My idea behind the collaboration was to design for the Topshop girl a range that is as close to the aesthetic of my mainline as possible, with great control over the quality of design and production,” said Katrantzou. “I can’t wait to see the Topshop girls in the bowl dresses and for the most daring to see them try the print on print layering!” – Mary Katrantzou 

Images via Mary Katrantzou & Topshop

Brooklyn Based designer Sunghee Bang has just release her FW12 lookbook that features models Shane Seng and Valery Ka from paris/newyork based Marilyn Modeling Agency. Jason Hardwick’s clean and chic photography really corresponds perfectly for Sunghee Bang’s look book. Each image encapsulates Bang’s unique contrivance and resilient emphasis on her clothing. Each garment feels newly fashioned, unpretentious and undeviating from what fashion should be. Good clothing can be adorned. As simple as my last statement appears, on the contrary, it is very difficult. The quality, warmth and feeling of Sunghee’s collection is honest.

I’m excited about Sunghee Bang’s growth, as the brand develops a following. After occupying retail space in stores like, Anthropologie, Barneys New York, Haven, Mark Shale, the designer is really rising. Her work continues to show so much versatility and longevity. It is unmistakable that Sunghee is challenging the industry through pushing exciting woolens and simplicity to the limit.

The collection titled Deconstruction is about just that, deconstruction. The collection’s eccentric silhouettes and attractive fabric mixing allow for a strong point of view. Pairing a poncho like silhouette, which is regarded as rain attire and repurposing that with leather exterior and knit interior to provide warmth and shelter really speaks volumes. Not only is construction important, but deconstruction is an indispensable key component to understanding anything. Deconstruction is really the first steps to knowing how something works.

Producing most of the collection in blacks, grey, heathers with hints of earthy red and brown make fashioning stress-free. It can be problematic viewing an ultra vibrant collection from your favorite designer and drawing a blank before a very imperative event. Who’s interested in changing outfits a hand full of times before heading out the door?  Similar to a well constructed raiment color can be intuitive.

Sunghee Bang has grown this season as well, expanding her knit offering into accessories & headwear. The color scheme has stayed pretty coherent with previous seasons. Chanel, Valentino, Emilio Pucci, and Issey Miyake, all great examples of how color can lend its self to a brand identity and look forever.

Fall Winter 2012 Lookbook

Photographer: Jason Hardwick
Models: Shane Seng and Valery Ka of Marilyn Modeling Agency.
Hair: Eric Jamieson
Make up: Kanako Takase
Images via Sunghee Bang 2012

So this past weekend I took a field trip…well maybe not a field trip but a splendid venture to New York City the fashion capital, yatta yatta yah. I was invited to the Ogilvy & Mather Youth x Fashion Event, which was fantastic. Ogilvy held a symposium regarding the changes in fashion media and how this is affecting fashion, blogging, advertising and networking. One of my highlights would have to be Ogilvy illustrator Stephanie von Dressler’s real time illustrations based on the discussed topics. The panel of speakers (Susan Cernek, Behnaz Sarafpour, Claire mazur, Erica cerulo, Betsy lowther, Jose Mejia, Lauren Crampsie, Tim maleeny) were brilliant and hilarious, especially the CMO at Ogilvy lauren crampsie and strategy & marketing expert Jose mejia. Everyone held a unique perspective and gave insight into being a successful fashion brand, blog, or designer.

Even the most glamorous of fashionistas have essential items that are worn, torn, or simply on the verge of being thrown into the spring-cleaning pile. We are all familiar with the privation of flinging out old things. Some will blame the absence of guidance while dressing in the morning. Some people will swear they can still wear it: “It’s fine, it’s suppose to do that.” Maybe it was a mixture of things that kept you from throwing your favorite item away; luckily some of us are exempt from explaining what encouraged our attire that day. For those of us that aren’t, I am there with you one hundred percent; I feel you. It’s hard getting rid of old things. As fashion connoisseurs, we are always on the cutting block, or being eyed by friends and co-workers. I’ve had to pull out the, don’t-judge-me-card numerous times. I think the hardest things with which to part are beloved leathers. Leather ages gracefully. Take a leather jacket for instance. Over time, the jacket will meld with the wearer. Leather is not for temporary adornment; it is for the lively, the frugal, and for the traveler. Simply living in a leather jacket will take it from being stiff and stubborn to soft and form fitting. After months, years, and decades of use, your jacket will act as a second skin. The sleeve having the burn mark from the time your friend dropped a cigarette on you. The distressed suede surface and partially rusty zipper from the wet fall/winter days out in the cold, or the worn leather elbows from leaning on various surfaces. Where or however these marks were made, one thing is assured, your jacket, your leather satchel, or you leather hat, whatever it may be, is getting to know you. It’s never unsure, hurt, broken, or dirty, it’s really just aging gracefully. So the next time you’re out and someone says, “I love that jacket,” you can say, “It’s 10 years old,” “I bought it at a thrift store,” or “It was my grandmothers.”

Photography By James Buford forInfashuated 2012

Just picked up a copy of Grey Magazine, which by the way might be my new source for some really interesting content. The magazine has unusual designers prospects and provide great images. These photos are just great. I’m such a stickler for fluidity mingled with-in unconventional uniformity. Though the styling is not as daunting, the visual pulchritude and familiarity of each photo really elevates these images. I am a fan of the motto, “ if its not broke don’t fix it.” Apparently Alessio Bolzoni is as well because after giving these images a second thought, I was reminded of artist Robert Longo’s early graphite works titled, Men in the Cities. In these drawings Longo captures a similar impression, showcasing business men and women flaring their arms and falling out. I don’t have too much insight into why Longo created these works but it is clear, strong comparisons can be made between his work and Alessio Bolzoni.

Images Photographed by Alessio Bolzoni for the latest issue of Grey Magazine. Model Styled by Moreno Galatà Post Imagery By James Buford for Infashuated

Swimwear is a challenging industry. Comparable to dressmaking and tailoring swimwear requires a sure level of attention, outside of the methodical spectrum of lifestyle, sportswear and even high-end wardrobes. There are fewer rules to break, but more problems that could occur. The range in which swim attire can be explored is endless. Though I am not familiar with the bohemian lifestyle, I see similar characteristics between this and swimwear. There is a certain level of freedom along with uncertainty.

It’s hard to describe designer Mara Hoffman’s unconventional style. Her African, Cuban, Bohemian and Indian inspired clothing, to say the least, really sings a million songs. Easily observed is Hoffman’s ability to meld unique hodgepodges of goodness together, but beneath lies so much more. Many would affirm Hoffman is the love child of Anthropology and Manish Arora.  Hoffman’s super comfortable collection, which happens to appeal to young girls, whose days involve lax sessions alfresco by the beachside, really goes beyond the typical Urban Outfitters, bohemian hipster. Though this is not a bad way to spend your time, Hoffman’s collection is not limited to swimwear. Hoffman also creates sluggish, comfortable attire varying from slouch pants, rompers, mesh tanks, cocoon tops with open backs, jackets made from a traditional Mexican serape. Each item is embellished in its own way, able to stand-alone if need be, but easily wearable with your preexisting clothing.

Hoffman’s 2012 S/S lookbook focuses predominantly on swimwear. The lookbook photography, shot by Olivia Malone, features model Nykhor Paul in an exotic, leafy green jungle setting. In some images, Nykhor, appears to be sunbathing, eyes closed, almost in a dream state, while in other photos, Nykhor is shown wearing a cheetah print bathing suit with straps drawing from the same inspiration as Hoffman’s traditional Mexico serape jacket. This season Mara Hoffman presents a really unique swim collection style with jewelry by All For The Mountain, and elaborately loose-fitting, draped cover-ups.

Photographed Olivia Malone
Hair and Headdresses Martin Christopher Harper
Makeup by Kristi Matamoros
Jewelry by All For The Mountain
Set Design by Andrea Huelse

After a very successful autumn/winter season, and collaborative pairing between Mother of Pearl and artist Keith Tyson, Mother of Pearl has created yet another exciting and just as fascinating collaboration with artist Fiona Banner. The line is intuitive and utilizes printed work by Banner, which is really the basis for the collection. Fiona Banner, whose work is about communication, literature, and typographic iconography, has created very interesting prints/graphics for MOP’s spring/summer 2012 collection.

While modern day readers are getting most of their content via web, the app store, networks, or other means, Banner sheds light on more traditional methods of getting information: ISBNs (International Book Standard Numbers).

As a means of documenting and labeling each item in MOP’s line, Banner has adorned each piece in the collection with an ISBN code and these digits help to uphold the brand’s feeling of exclusivity. The placements of the ISBN are treated almost like fun quirky graphics, which evoke a kind of retro feeling as well.

There is a lot of truth to the statement, “Fashion comes full circle.” When looking at the MOP logo/motif that is featured as a hem, cuff, or stripe element on many items in the collection, I instantaneously think of Versace. Versace’s Greek medusa motifs from his earlier works can easily be linked to a specific moment in fashion. Though these details are often regarded as gaudy, Versace’s recent collaboration with Hennes and Mauritz (H&M), and his resurgence with main stream youth/street culture, will certainly help to bring relevance to these details.

Along with new collaborations, Mother of Pearl seems to be expanding their product offering. The collection’s range not only covers spring/summer essentials like dresses, skirts, pants, tops and jumpers, but the collection features some really exquisite accessories, footwear, and everyday tops. Norman does a great job of bridging the gap between high-end attire to main street sports product for the masses.

This season, Maia Norman also showcases an assortment of swimwear. Norman’s self-proclaimed love for swimming and surfing is really apparent in what she offers through her overall executions. Norman’s attention to detail and richness of colors throughout the lookbook is great. Each look is edgy and perfect for the spring/summer. A lot like fashion label Celine, Mother of Pearl is certainly building a cult following, keeping their range of distribution limited to under fifteen stores worldwide. Mother of Pearl’s products are bold, colorful, and unapologetic. Norman is bringing something distinctive and progressive to the market without losing the brand’s devotees; all the while attracting newcomers. This spring/summer line is abstract and risky; but the overarching concept, as well as Banner’s contributions to the brand’s appeal, is fairly genius.

Have you ever wanted to go to an art show or exhibit so bad that you urged everyone person you know to go for you? Well this is my current position. Since I am currently operating in Boston, Massachusetts, for a while, any chances of me seeing the exhibit of painter and photographer, Edward Steichen, are slim to none. His work is currently on exhibit in Milano, Italy at the Galleria Carla Sozzani. Steichen’s work will be on display until (February 12^th), so if you are oh so fortunate and in passing, it will be well worth it to stop at Carla Sozzani Galleria. I’ve been a big fan of his work for about five years. After stumbling upon Steichen work in my History of Film and Fashion course, I made a conscious effort to add him to my repertoire of fashion photographers and painters. Many people associate Edwards as being one of the earliest modern photographers. Steichen’s exceptional composition and exploration of unconventional lighting and scenery paved the way for today’s top fashion photographers like, Bruce Weber, David LaChapelle, Patrick Demarchelier, and the late great Herb Ritts.

With a handful of experience, a blog full of illustrations, and countless photographic inspiration, British designer and third-year fashion illustration student, Sasha Helim, is gaining momentum that will motivate her career for years to come.

Sasha doesn’t live the life of an average student. If she’s not tied up with London College of Fashion, she is immersed in her own list of projects : from travel, London Fashion Week, illustration and design, styling for the English National Ballet, to working with The British design council and top fashion designer Vivienne Westwood. Sasha is a well of inspiration and works enthusiastically to keep Infashuated. Sasha Helim : Infashuated Interview ↓

• Full Name:

Sasha Helim

• Educational background:

After completing school where I studied subjects including art and textiles, I headed straight to college and then went on to study Foundation Art & Design at London College of Fashion where I developed my portfolio to progress onto studying a degree in Fashion Illustration at the same institution. I am currently in my third year and due to graduate in June.

• Where are you from?

Wapping, London

• Favorite place to shop?

Topshop

• Two words to describe your personality.

Girly/ honest

• What are you Infashuated about? Any sources of inspiration? (i.e. magazines, artist, exhibitions, exciting restaurants, etc.)

My favourite magazines are British Vogue and bi-annual Lula Magazine, the dreamy, feminine aesthetic theme of that particular publication (and even the paper it is printed on) makes it a beautiful read. I’ve been collecting them over the years. My favourite websites include thecoveteur and style where I love looking at the backstage fashion show photos. I find photographer Tim Walker completely amazing, his style is so fun and fantastically themed; his photo-shoots are complete with amazing set designs, never disappoints, and will forever inspire me. My current infashuation? Feather embellishment!

• What is your favorite medium of choice when creating illustrations? I notice much of you work contains collage. What made you gravitate toward this format and style of working?

My medium of choice is usually ink and pencil, however I enjoy creating collages along with these disciplines, as it enables me to combine my favourite techniques, creating an interesting visual. I also like the way in which collage enables you to manipulate scale and layer photos and illustration together to produce an abstract and unique image, I sometimes use sewing, too, to add texture over the illustration.

• Do you gravitate towards a particular style, time period, or design aesthetic perhaps?

I love clothing complete with embellishment; my favourite designer is Ricardo Tisci at Givenchy for this reason. I find this design aesthetic to be inspiring as the craftsmanship of the intricate details are amazing. My particular style of illustration is feminine, dreamy and sometimes abstract, I feel this comes from a reflection of my personality and inspiration.

• Tell us about past projects, affiliations, etc.

My illustration degree got off to a great start when my fashion illustration was chosen as the 2010 design for charity Jeans for Genes annual fashion t-shirt which was a fantastic experience as a first year degree student; my t-shirt was modelled and advertised by model Amber Le Bon and featured in publications including British Vogue, Glamour magazine and Vogue.com to name a few. 
I have since done styling with the English National Ballet, worked with the British Fashion Council and in the Vivienne Westwood studios which was amazing. I had the opportunity of working backstage at the London Fashion Week show as well as travelling to Paris with the team to work on the Paris Fashion Week Gold Label show. My latest experience was working with Fiona Leahy creative events, which consisted of creating props and producing creative ideas for events for brands such as Louis Vuitton and Vogue’s Fashion Night Out.

• With all the amazing photographs of your travels, parties, fashion shows, and designing, how has this helped to provide vision and inspiration for your work?

In all of my fashion related travel, my trip to Paris was particularly inspiring as seeing the fantastic street style surrounding the shows as well as the photos of the atmosphere backstage I captured is something that has stayed with me for a while and even prompted me to base my final year illustration project on just that. During the upcoming London and Paris Fashion Weeks I intend to go there and do some street style photography of my own as well as work backstage on some shows, working the images into a collection of illustrations and collages.

• How do you prep for projects; what is ideal in regards to your preliminary stages?

In order to prep for a project I tend to source inspiration from my favourite blogs, websites, magazines and visit my university library for books on the subject. I even visit places such as Bond Street to view shop windows as the creative way, in which they present products can help visualise an illustration concept. Art galleries and museums such as the V&A and Tate Modern are also great sources of research depending on the subject matter.

• Being that you’re a knowledgeable fashion illustrator and you have a level of significance to your work, what are your feelings on the saturation of online blogs and fashion websites?

Online fashion blogs can be great sources of fashion images and be hugely inspiring, I also think they give creative people a portal to present their work, much like myself and can fulfill the function of collating all your creative work, experiences and inspiration into a story. I welcome the development of fashion blogs and websites as you can never be too inspired and are great for seeing fellow up and coming creative people in the industry and projects they are working on.

• When did you first know that you wanted to become a fashion illustrator?

I was determined to work within the fashion industry from a very young age, I always knew I would study at the London College of Fashion and realised drawing would be the medium through which I would do so when I was around 15 years old. When I was little, I loved to draw then, too; I constantly entered drawing competitions and at one point had my whole bedroom wall covered in drawings! In this respect, it has always been quite obvious that I would come to be a fashion illustrator.

• What’s next for Sasha Helim? Collaborations future endeavours, design prospects?

This year is rather exciting as I graduate from my fashion illustration degree and will be exhibiting my final university fashion illustration project in June. I have another charity t-shirt out this year in April too, which will be sold in a major British department store and bring about some great press for my work. Prior to this I have my work due to feature in various publications and look forward to working on some more London Fashion Week shows.

* Special thanks to Sasha Helim ( Check out her blog ).Writen/Interview by James Buford, and edited by Alicia Fairclough for INFASHUATED © 2011. No part of this content or information included therein may be reproduced, republished or redistributed without the prior consent of Infashuated.com (contact us). Please view the rest of Sasha Helim’s work via her blog.