Ginger & Smart AW12 Lookbook & Interview
Could you guess that a flying cat is one of this collection's inspirations?
Like a Renaissance-era cabinet of curiosities, Ginger & Smart's AW12 offering 'Curio' is inspired by eclectic objects and ephemera. The result is a colourful collection of lilac and soft purple, coral and green, bursting with popping prints which have as varied influences from Papa New Guinea folkart to 18th century archival wildlife illustrations. Winter may be approaching, but it need not all be grey... We caught up with the designers Alexandra and Genevieve Smart to talk about 'Curio'.
Ingrid Kesa: What were the main sources of inspiration behind AW12?
The 'Curio' collection was great fun to create. We were drawn to objects and images that are rare, unusual or peculiar. Some of the bizarre items included a two-headed chicken, a flying cat, collections of robots and truly beautiful head-dresses from Papua New Guinea tribes. We sourced a rich pool of references for the imagery, shapes and colour palate.
These items of Curio inspired us to create a range of garments that function like unique jewels in your wardrobe to be coveted as individual separates or work in conjunction with other pieces. We loved the idea of collecting unusual pieces for your wardrobe that somehow update all your other pieces, as a collector does with rare curious objects.
How did you develop the prints in the collection?
The inspiration for the prints came from the collection of Curio references that we amassed during the development of the range. For example, the Animalia print is mash up of 18th Century etchings of animals and skeletons.
What is the best thing about Winter as a season?
The ability to layer up separates up with prints, colour and textures. You really have the opportunity to mix it up in Winter ? it's not just about a killer dress. You have all these other elements to play with to add extra interest and individuality to your look.
Can you each pick a personal favourite piece and tell us why you particularly love it?
The Cross Stitch Dress [below] is a favourite although there are lots of great jackets we are looking forward to wearing. The Cross Stitch Dress is one of those pieces that suits so many body shapes as it has been pattern-cut with a relaxed fit, but you can adjust the dropped waist with a draw-string if you want to go with a shorter and more whimsical look. The print began as a reference to ancient fabric but we injected fluro colours and a stripe through it so it's contemporary. We also love our Coloured Ankle Boots in emerald green and cobalt because we know they will brighten up those winter days all season.
See some of Oyster's favourite looks here:
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Ingrid Kesa
