Following on from a recent exhibition of photographs by Steven Miesel, LOEWE presents a collection of surrealist works by artist Ouka Leele.
Exhibited at Gran Via location in Madrid, the brand’s oldest store, the exhibition is a tribute to the surrealist Leele, who still to this day lives in the capital. In the 1980s Leele was a key figure associated with ‘Movida’, an explosion of countercultural energy that transcended film, music and painting.
‘Peluqueria’ (hairdresser) which consists of 19 images are now on display at the lower level of LOEWE Gran Via, sees the imagery juxtaposed against the matte black walls with stark spot lighting. The iconic shots have also been printed onto accessories, also available to purchase online.
Hairdresser: 11th January 2017 – 26th February 2017.
Gorgeously composed, Willy Vanderperre captures the essence of Jil Sander‘s design aesthetic in their new SS17 advertising campaign. Featuring a cast of Natalie Westling and Tillmann, the photographs are perfect style inspiration for the new year.
Ben Rayner first made a name for himself photographing artists and musicians for Dazed & Confused and VICE, before transitioning into fashion photography. He has since become a regular fixture of magazines like Wonderland and Vogue. His talents have united him with the likes of Bella Hadid, ASAP Rocky and Alexa Chung, but he has always maintained an interest in producing his own personal work. Ben has published numerous zines and several monographs in the past. His latest project is a book made up of casually shot photographs that realise his aims of producing a photo diary of his day. Aptly named ‘Half Day’, the images have been shot in multiple locations and use an array of different formats, capturing fleeting and intimate snapshots of Ben’s life. Twin spoke to Ben about stealing moments, living in New York and the future.
Tell us about your new book.
The book is a monograph of moments photographed during 2014 and 2015. It’s made up of abstractions, portraits and landscapes. It’s a snapshot of the world as I saw it in those moments. I’m always taking pictures, so after I amass a collection of work I try to put it together in a somewhat coherent way. The book kind of has a fluid narrative of stolen moments in time.
Why did you decide to name the book ‘Half Day’?
I wanted to call the book ‘Half Day’ because it sounded optimistic and is a reminder that you still have half a day left.
A lot of your work has maintained a focus on fashion in the past. How does ‘Half Day’ divert from that?
I shoot a lot of fashion, but have always photographed everything around me. This is my fourth monograph and first hard cover book. I have also published countless zines. To me all my work is a reflection of my view of the world. I think some fashion images could have been dropped into the sequence of this book and still would have made sense. I like to steal moments from people and from the world.
Your photos have been described as ‘stopping time’ as opposed to capturing it. Why do you think that is?
I think sometimes I see things that other people don’t see, like a person’s fleeting expression. My aim is to connect with whoever and whatever I am shooting. I love photographing everyone, from famous models like Alice Dellal and Bella Hadid to actors and chefs.
You made the transition from London to New York. Do you think the change is reflected in your work? If so, how?
I don’t think so really. The images in this book are not very New York heavy. I tend to photograph things more where I don’t live. Although, I have been photographing my personal work in New York a lot more in the last few months.
What’s next for you?
I would like to do some still life photography, and more fashion stories, portraits and personal books. I have lots of ideas. I would also like to do a lot more video work in the future.
Founded by life-long friends Angelina and Julia the RTW brand, The Nude London exudes a whimsical femininity with a collection that consists of feather-light chiffon dresses, printed blouses and sharp tailoring. We catch up with the friends-come-business partners to chat about launching a new label and the power of female friendship.
Tell us how you first started?
We have known each other since childhood and have always been inspired by femininity and beautiful dresses. Each one of us has lived all over the world: Tokyo, London, Paris, Moscow and have drawn inspiration from there. Eventually, we wanted to create that effortlessly cool feminine look with our brand.
How would you describe your aesthetic?
Very girly and elegant with a sexy twist.
Where do you get your inspiration from?
Travelling and the amazing inspiring women we meet along the way.
Is there anyone you have in mind when designing?
Our heroine is the modern day woman who is not afraid to express herself, she loves being a woman and dressing in a feminine way.
Who would you love to dress?
Vanessa Paradis and Lily-Rose Depp.
Which is your favourite piece, or pieces, from the collection?
We particularly love the Queen Mary dress, but this season we also branched out into outerwear and the coats are just so cool and comfortable!
Calling all wanderlusters, the leather experts at PRITCH have now launched their latest line, PRITCH Adventures. The new range offers luxe travel wear, consisting of oversized sweatshirts and classic track pants in a colour palette of black, white, olive, baby blue, sapphire blue and deep red. Like the RTW PRITCH London range, this line has thoughtful detailing, which sees the finest leather combined with super-cosy jersey that is perfect for your winter getaways. Perfect for glam, post-holiday lounging.
Tell us about your background.
I was born in Moscow and raised in between Saint Petersburg, Germany, Malta and United Kingdom. At the age of 5 I started drawing and by the age of 7 I started to do fashion sketches. By the age of 14 I figured that I want to start my own fashion brand. Since then I never looked back.
You specialise in leather, what is it about this material that you love?
I feel like leather is underestimated as a material. Not enough is done, possibilities are endless. It is also a very challenging material to work with, that requires attention to detail. You only have one chance with it, as you can not stitch it twice.
How would you describe your brand aesthetic?
Embodying today’s duality between elegance and edge. PRITCH London’s distinctive signature is transformation and the art of combining various leathers and luxurious textures in one piece. Each PRITCH London garment is designed with multi-functionality and transformation in mind, easily layered or transformed with removable elements. Inspiration behind is contrasts and edges.
Do you have a favourite piece from the collection?
I am in love with the Hybrid Bomber from our current AW16 collection for a casual day out or a fancy evening with friends. And my from now on “must travel in” piece is the “Jet-setter travel set” from our newest “Pritch Adventures” travel wear line.
You have launched PRITCH Adventures, what inspired this?
My constant adventures around the world, passion for travelling and lack of comfortable and sophisticated pieces to wear while I travel.
What do you have coming up for 2017?
I’m not even sure where to start. I have collaborations with well-known and up and coming artists, new partnerships, a mens capsule collection, kids travel wear and so much more!
Having taken over YSL from Hedi Slimane this year, Anthony Vaccarello used his first collection to offer a re-interpretation of the language of the house. The monogram earring, a signature accessory of Spring/Summer 2017, is designed to be deconstructed and put back together again – the perfect emblem of a new creative voice in the house.
The imitable Chloë Sevigny fronts the new J.W.Anderson‘s SS17 campaign, and it couldn’t be a better fit. Sevigny’s nonchalant cool was captured by photographer Jamie Hawkesworth, appearing alongside images in which Anderson’s clothes are juxtaposed with the natural world.
Known for his hybridism, the look book speaks from core influences of J.W.Anderson’s design– ideas of change and transience in this technological age. Hawkesworth‘s images capture these ideas of movement, contrasting a pensive Sevigny in domestic environments to the free-flowing clothes outdoors and aligning colours to create a sense of energy and depth.
If Chloë Sevigny wasn’t your style crush before, she probably should be now.
Make your 2017 pop with these bright, bold handbags from Marco de Vincenzo. With an emphasis on shape and bright colour, the new collection is fun, playful and oh-so-desirable. Designed in the shape of a paw, the design sees tapered techno padding, hand-dyed edges and specially-made hardware combining for a punchy, power accessory.
Available in a range of colour ways, the Griffe bag will quite feasibly seduce you into investing in a few because hey, who could possibly choose between a yellow, cobalt blue, metallic lime or dusty pink calfskin creation?
Lena C. Emery’s ‘Rie 理絵’ Investigates Feminine Truth
Twin contributor Lena C. Emery’s new monograph Rie 理絵 (pr. Rhea) is a product of an continuing exploration of how women are intimately depicted. Rie, both the title and main subject of the book, literally means ‘truth’, a theme that permeates each image. The book depicts Emery’s poetic renderings of women who repeatedly pose, rest and move while in various states of dress – and undress. Playing with ideas of the female gaze, the women in the photographers are both aware and vulnerable; tangible and mysterious. Of the new launch, Emery explained:
“Within Rie 理絵 I wanted to embark on an inherently female dialogue on the subject of revealing. I was interested in understanding at what point when we reveal our bodies as women to a potential other, does the apparent vulnerability cross over into the appreciation of the powerful notion of being naked and being oneself without an inner or outer surveyor present, without being on display. Watching Rie and the other nine women that I photographed, all of which were strangers to me and each other at the time and who had never been photographed in this way before, come to life as they slowly shed each layer of artifice, felt incredibly reassuring.”
Published by Kominek, Rie 理絵 is available from 16th December and can be bought here.
When it launched in 1995, the Lady Dior bag was created to reflect the contemporary nature of the house, embodying a modern identity while continuing to communicate the refined femininity for which the brand is famed. 11 years later, the architectural silhouette has become a canvas for seven of the most exciting artists working today.
This art project was first launched with British artist Marc Quinn who designed a limited edition collection in June. At Miami Art Basel collaborations with Daniel Gordon, Chris Martin, Ian Davenport, Matt Collishaw, Jason Martin and Matthew Porter were also launched. As is to be expected, each collaboration is unique, reflecting the creative inclinations of the artist. The result is a beautiful, and varied collection of Lady Dior bags that will make you fall in love with this classic design all over again.
Available at international stockists across the globe, these new collaborations give a whole new meaning to the phrase arm candy.
Meet the latest offering from the Chaos crew: personalisable iPhone cases. Having designed those custom made luxe silk tracksuit bottoms for Cara Delevinge and Margot Robbie, Chaos have nailed personalisation and haven’t looked back.
Founded by fashion editors and stylists Charlotte Stockdale and Katie Lyall, the brand’s line of phone accessories ranges from cases to alphabet charms, emblazoned with statement slogans, to graphic motifs (we love the pills) and initials.
Available from their site: shop.chaos.club, as well as Dover Street Market, Selfridges and matchesfashion.com. Order before the 15th December to receive in time for Christmas.
To commemorate the Fashion Awards 2016, photographer Nick Knight has released two new fashion films that reflect on contemporary fashion today. Featuring Molly Goddard, Nasir Mazhar, Hood By Air, Givenchy and Balenciaga, Up and 90210 were edited by SHOWstudio’s Raquel Couceiro, and explore tensions between strength and delicacy and intimacy and discordance. With a soundtrack by rapper Travis Scott, this pair of films celebrate the creative spirit that Knight consistently promotes through his work.
Farfetch and AQUAZZURA Unveil Exclusive Capsule Collection
Four beautiful and talented women from around the globe have teamed up with AQUAZZURA to create a new capsule collection. Launching exclusively on Farfetch, Holli Rogers, Claire Distenfeld, Pascaline Smets and Princess Deena Al-Juhani Abdulaziz – all owners of luxury boutiques – have lent their unique eyes to the designs, creating 7 new styles with founder of AQUAZZURA, Edgardo Osorio.
Osorio commented: “Over the years I have developed a very special relationship with each of the collaborators – some of them have been wearing AQUAZZURA since the very start of the brand. They each have a truly unique and personal style, and it was very interesting for me to work together to create something special that felt very much like them. I also love that these four have completely different personalities and tastes, yet they all have strong characters and an amazing fashion sense.”
Styles include statement suede boots, gold platforms and staple stilettos with multi-coloured detail. Available online now, the collection drops just in time for party season.
Those looking for a December boost should head over to Selfridges to check out the latest Louis Vuitton Menswear Pop-up at the iconic London department store, Selfridges.
The new pop-up has been illustrated by The Chapman Brothers, who were commissioned by Men’s Style Director Kim Jones to create a space inspired by his time in Africa. Expect to see giraffes looming large over the collection, while rhinos and jaguars roam wild across the wallpaper.
Launching in two waves, the visually impressive space plays host to a denim bar as well as an exciting array of exclusive products across ready-to-wear, accessories, shoes and leather goods. The Pre- SS17 collection is available in store now, and will be followed by the SS17 show preview from the 15th December.
Smashing The Glass lens: Photo Vogue Celebrates The Next Generation
The inaugural Photo Vogue Festival is celebrating the next generation of talented female fashion photographers, those who have subverted the traditional power male / female dynamic and liberated women from prescribed identities – the madonna, the whore.
Over three exhibitions in Milan, the female body is celebrated and examined in mysterious, alluring and mystical images from names such as Vanessa Beecroft, Petra Collins and Cindy Sherman. Beecroft’s work is exhibited in a stand-alone show that includes work from 1993 – 2016. In ‘The Female Gaze’ a host of dynamic artists are displayed together, creating a powerful rallying cry to a new era of fashion photography that empowers and enables women on both sides of the lens. The third exhibition, PhotoVogue/inFashion showcases the new talent who were brought together as part of the Photo Vogue competition. Conceived and curated by Vogue Italia, the festival also incorporates talks and lectures.
ELLISS is an exciting new brand that was founded earlier this year by young designer Elliss Solomon. Elliss’ first collection, entitled ‘Unconscious Clothing’, features flattering, contemporary designs, often emblazoned with bold prints, while staying true to the brand’s sustainable ethos. Elliss designs and makes the clothes in the UK to maintain a low carbon footprint, and only uses sustainable organic materials like cotton, hemp and bamboo. We spoke to Elliss about her inspiration behind the brand and the challenges of starting up her own fashion line.
What made you want to become a fashion designer?
I always knew that I wanted to do something creative and decided early that I wanted to study fashion at Central St Martins, which is where I ended up. I used to be very experimental with my outfits. I now dress quite simply and I am more conscious of the small details. That is where the design aesthetic for ELLISS has stemmed from.
Can you tell us a little bit about your vision behind the brand?
I design individual pieces that are beautiful, unusual and easy to wear: clothes that have a story. I am conscious of every step of the process – from how the garment will make you feel, to where it is made and from what materials. The fabrics I use are soft and natural and the garments are made in England to maintain a low carbon footprint. Every item is vegan friendly. The first collection is called ‘unconscious clothing’ which is a play on the idea of the ‘unconscious consumer’. I want the women who buy my clothes to not necessarily be looking for something eco friendly, but to choose a piece because of the design – to unconsciously be conscious.
How do you incorporate political issues into your work?
I am inspired by women who spoke out before others would. This collection incorporates 18th and 19th century portraiture into prints. Each painting or photograph is carefully placed to flatter the female form. The prints are slightly risqué and tongue in cheek. I want the women who wear my clothes to feel confident and empowered.
What materials do you use?
The Jerseys I have chosen for this collection are made from organic cotton, hemp and bamboo. Hemp is the most sustainable fabric. It grows quickly and is so dense it doesn’t allow for weeds. It is also naturally breathable and can be very soft. It hasn’t always had the best reputation but I want to change that. Hemp can be lightweight and delicate!
Which other brands or labels are you inspired by?
I am inspired by small brands that are authentic in their ideas and production. Veja is a footwear brand that has a really interesting supply chain. Although they do use leather, I am still waiting for someone to do something fresh and innovative with sustainable leather alternatives.
How do you choose the names for your designs?
The names come from the different activists that I have referenced in the prints and women in my life who influence me. The Anna body is named after Anna Kingsford, an anti-vivisectionist, vegetarian and women’s rights campaigner who has heavily inspired the prints.
What have been the most challenging aspects of setting up your own clothing line?
There are a lot of challenges but each stage is rewarding when you finally find a solution. I am always looking to my friends and family for feedback. Sourcing everything from fabrics to packaging takes time. When we find a supplier that is great to work with or a fabric that we can continue to use, things become easier. All of our postal packaging is recycled, from the stickers to the mailers. It’s really important to me to waste as little as possible.
What’s next for the brand?
Our online shop has just launched, which is really exciting! The first collection is available to buy now. The next step is working on designs for the second release. I am researching new and inspiring prints at the moment. I can’t wait to see it all come together!
Skater girls haven’t been this cool since Avril Lavigne: introducing the new MiuMiuOllie Sneakers, a line of skate shoes from the fabled fashion house.
Those looking for a way to spruce up your functional footwear game can revel in the candy coloured pinks and blues. The sneakers are playfully embellished with gems and feathers, mixing a hyper feminine feel with a gurney attitude, embodying the Miu Miu girl we all want to be today.
Sneakers are available in stores across the globe from November, with the feather styles following in January 2017. It’s time to get your skates on.
Eckhaus Latta, the experimental label helmed by Mike Eckhaus and Zoe Latta; has positioned itself at the vanguard of New York’s new wave and is hailed for injecting the city with a much needed shot of artistic flair.
Season by season they take NYFW by storm and enjoy a band of inspired and devoted followers, some of which have even started their own brands, such as August Vestbo of Bror August or Esther Gauntlett and Jenny Cheng of Gauntlett Cheng.
Eckhaus Latta’s offbeat designs and witty eclecticism has caught the eye of Spanish footwear brand, Camper, who recently invited the duo to collaborate on their project ‘Camper Together’. The result is an exclusive selection of block-heeled sock boots in delectable pastel shades.
The collaboration is a marvellous meeting of minds. Eckhaus Latta’s fascination with knitwear is merged with Camper’s shoemaking expertise, the outcome is captured in a short film set in Camper’s native Mallorca and features Eckhaus Latta muses, Hari Nef and Martine Gutieriez.
The film beautifully blends fashion and performance art, with the two models acting out trance-like sequences in which they attempt to drink out of glasses with the boots on their hands or crush oranges wearing them on their feet.
Speaking about the collaboration, Eckhaus Latta said, “we became very inspired by Camper’s late 90s Walk Don’t Run campaign, which captures Mallorcan and Spanish landscapes with normal people, occasionally in the shoes,” says Latta. “We felt inspired to use that as a jumping off point but our way, with our clothes and our people.”
![JWA_17-1_AD_PRESENTATION_161212[2]-4](https://www.twinfactory.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/JWA_17-1_AD_PRESENTATION_1612122-4-e1482060524620.jpg)
![JWA_17-1_AD_PRESENTATION_161212[2]-3[2]](https://www.twinfactory.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/JWA_17-1_AD_PRESENTATION_1612122-32-e1482060510536.jpg)
![JWA_17-1_AD_PRESENTATION_161212[2]-5](https://www.twinfactory.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/JWA_17-1_AD_PRESENTATION_1612122-5-e1482060536515.jpg)
PREVIOUS
Twitter
Tumblr
YouTube
Facebook
Instagram
