Xsenia & Olya
SS13 collection Liquid Smoke
Every now and again you come across something, whether it be a product, saying, person or in this case an emerging designer that you feel you need tell everyone you know about. Whilst watching the shows at Vancouver Fashion Week, scribbling notes that would soon become eloquent coverage requested by media, I also took note of designers that excited me.
The London-based womenswear brand Xsenia & Olya began their show on Saturday evening with the beautifully made film above. Whispers in the audience, regarding the talent and leading edge in British fashion, made for an intense atmosphere. Designers Xsenia Runa and Olya Shishkina did not disappoint with their sophisticated, feminine collection that oozed movement and evoked powerful emotion.
Their SS13 collection "continues to build on the theme of movement, this time exploring the properties of smoke and water." Digital prints delicately recreate the synthesis of ink swirled in water or coloured smoke diffusing in the air. The attention to the way in which their pieces flow and move is captivating. Soft hues infused with vibrant colour lend to the creation of mystical shapes escaping from within the printed fabric. The designers relate that "each Xsenia & Olya piece elegantly drapes around the silhouette enabling each woman to feel both free and feminine."
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| Xsenia and Olya, SS13 Liquid Smoke Collection Photography: Dale Rollings |
Not only did I love each of piece of clothing shown on the runway last week I love their description of the type of woman they design their collection for;
They have been inspired by the women who are well travelled and have a refined eye – for those who seek comfort in clothes because they are more mobile, more active but still want to look and feel beautiful.
After seeing some beautiful clothing from emerging designers at VFW last week, I've realised the importance of supporting designers like Xsenia and Olya. Bursting with talent, their creations are beautiful, if not more beautiful than coveted established designers.
Do you support emerging designers? If so who are your favourites?
I understand why you were captivated by Xsenia & Olya. Those photos in your article caught my eye immediately! Now I want to know where I can find the clothes!
ReplyDeleteHere in Vancouver, I am a huge fan of Nicole Bridger, who not only makes beautiful draped, flowing, and very feminine garments for many body types but does so with sustainable fabrics and mostly local manufacturing (and fair trade otherwise). I also just bought a charcoal dress in very soft light wool from Obakki (Treana Peake) that looks and feels like it was made for me! And I bought two wonderful pieces at Spend on Trend from Carny Love (Christie Clayton).
Thank you for your lovely suggestions!
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