Let’s take a moment to think about that cliche in fashion—what are you wearing in X (insert number of years) / the future?
It’s funny, I can remember the scene in the first season of Project Runway that challenged the designers to work in teams in order to capsule a mini collection based on what fashion looks like in the future. If you think of it, it’s been at least over a decade since that time frame. Flash forward to 2021. Fashion definitely experienced a moment to recollect its philosophy over the past year. From a business perspective, the fashion industry is definitely transitioning to a pattern shift. Our mindsets during the pandemic have us thinking of how to rebuild the dynamics of fashion going forward. New things are about to come around and it’s exciting to see a new or updated concept.
Who would have thought that face masks were going to be such a hot commodity. In the beginning, it may have felt like a culture shock for the use of a mask outside of occupational use. It became a thing. With a low supply of medical supplies, such as face masks, were in high demand. Personally, what began to emerge is a massive collaborative movement. Fashion companies began making fabric mask coverings. This notion also was popping up all around. Sewing these masks was an opportunity for those with the ability to use a sewing machine. Fashion and design also played a part as well. We then started seeing how matching face masks to our outfits became a thing. Or having a unique mask was always so eye-catching. Sustainability also plays a little part. With disposable masks being a high demand item, it is baffling to see that mask littering was something that plagued nature. Making these fabric reusable masks on all levels as a whole is such a powerful moment; it gives you a humbled feeling.
So, we can say that the face masks became an essential. Looking back at that same episode of Project Runway, there’s also the concept of choice of fabric. One of the favored ideals is being able to weather through the elements. There’s a comical thought that you would assume clothing made of astronaut-inspired attire or a hazmat suit, but really, could that be a thing? Obviously, it’s definitely on the extreme side, but it’s interesting to ponder.
Now, we come to the notion of style. Obviously, this is subjective to the wearer, but it would seem that there were some notable areas of style that came into the limelight. Athleisure became a trend, adapting lounge and comfy aesthetics. Another popular trend was tie-dyeing. This reemergence of this was everywhere, it also helped that it was just around the corner of Spring/Summer and the memorable shit downs, quarantines, and stay at home orders were about to go into effect. Quarantine style paired with our new behavioral patterns of adapting is something we may have experienced more than enough times.
You’re probably wondering why I bring this up. Well, I take this question and I’m about to explore the opportunities that come about that can blend the idea into the XV mindset. The inspired graphics, art and design components are ready to take new perspectives. There’s a whole range of creativity that I’m excited to show through this venue. Connection, nostalgia, and that moment. It’s a feeling that I wish to awaken for you that I believe is vital.
As I begin to formulate a timeline and a web of plans, associated with this iconic project, I want to get my mind back into a fashion-engulfed mindset. Back to basics, but also keeping away from idle hands. At the tail end of Summer 2018, I had developed a mood board that laid out a collection I was looking to develop. I think this is the best time to break the glass and give a revival to this paused project. The concept inspiration derives from one of my favorite painters, Frida Kahlo. Taking elements that distinguish not only her style, her artwork, and her mind, but then blending it with the idea of a kaleidoscopic view.
The whole idea of the kaleidoscopic view comes from this tapestry that I had bought a few years back. The moment I put it up, it was like seeing images in the clouds. Even just staring in one area of this tapestry, you are taken away by so many tricks of the eye. So that takes me to one of my strong suit characteristics when I started out as a fashion designer—-print! When I was developing collections at The Art Institute of Philadelphia, there were a few comments that stood out to me. First, giving credit to my background in marketing, I was told that when creating a collection, the versatility and marketability of my designs were strong and cohesive. Second, the ability to mix prints expresses a bold and strong statement that shows personality. So that’s it. Print on print, on print. It’s gonna be a wild mix, and I’m sure with added extras.
I also plan on taking the idea of sustainability towards the creation of this collection. I’ve gone through my archive of fabrics and materials, and this is the time to showcase all these hoarded materials. The more resources that I can apply, the better. So stay tuned!
Love always, Matthew