Pattern Pulp

Paridust: Where Fashion Meets Art




Paridust_Patterns

I stumbled upon Pari Ehsan’s instagram feed last night while procrastinating before bed. I clicked on her photo, and was completely taken by the art and color fields that followed.

Ehsan claims the stark minimalism that’s synonymous with gallery spaces. She merges herself within geometric rooms to create energy between herself, her outfits and the objects. Her presence paired with the square layout of Instagram produces a story – one that’s thoughtfully aware, if not a bit reserved. The minimalism or maximalism used in the styling works beautifully in the series. Here are a few personal favorites, but have a look at her website – it’s an interesting take on pop culture, fashion and the art world.

 

Styling a Grunge Shoot with Chelsa Skees




Every once in a while friends ask what it’s like to style a shoot so I thought I’d give a little insight from a recent job. While most assignments are different, on this particular shoot I was given complete creative authority which is what I enjoy the most. I got an inspiration board and was told to pull my looks from 3 brands: Cushnie et OchsSandro, and Suno.

I was inspired to pull a few downtown modern grunge looks together that were chic while adding girly-skirts and frilly-socks for a softer feel.  I knew there was going to be a green wig on the set and some colorful backdrops so I pulled bright tops to clash colors for a fun pop.

In addition to getting the inspiration boards I was given a few descriptor words: cool, colorful, fun, and hip. It’s my job to bring these adjectives to life. Every time I book a shoot I try to gather all the info I can- from expectations, models, color, mood, environment and brand to ensure each job’s a success. Photos by Tom Mendes and myself.

Coverage by Chelsa Skees

 

Fashion: African Kimonos




Our collective fascination with culture crossing is nothing new, though every now and then it’s important to sit up and take note of new projects. Serge Mouangue is an artist worthy of this attention, as proven by his Wafrica collection, a breathtaking cultural shakeup. This styled photoshoot combines the strength of bold and bright African textiles with the grace of the traditional Japanese Kimono. Strength and grace. Two contrasts united in women. They may appear different on the surface but they do share some cultural similarities. Both societies are very tribal and have a respect for hierarchy and an appreciation of the power of silence,” says Mouangue when asked about the theme of this project. “And then there are the differences. In Japan there is no improvisation. Here, improvisation can mean trouble, shame, difficulties. But in Africa, it means life, renewal, health and spirit.”

Coverage by: Emily Gup

Fashion: Marketing the Disco Ball




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It’s always interesting to see fashion, print and marketing intersect unintentionally.  Having worked within the fashion and marketing worlds, we’re well aware of the power nightlife can have on a brand.  Mega bucks are spent on a daily basis to keep party goers dancing, drinking and living the lifestyle that their clothing, music and liquor choices convey.  With companies such as Mirrorball and The Happy Corp hitting their creative marks so precisely, it’s no wonder that nightlife’s most iconic symbol, the disco ball, has spurned it’s own fashion trend.

Garments bedecked in mesh metal mirrors are lighting up the night as well as glistening in the sunshine of day.  The jacket and the mirrorball blouse, as seen above, are Martin Margiela creations for his label, Maison Martin Margiela.  The eighties style jacket appeared in this past month’s US Elle, while Hedi Slimane‘s fiercely styled spread was a highlight French Vogue’s April issue.

Additional contributions by Emily Gup.

Follow-up: Armed with Asymmetry




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Israeli stylist, Maayan Goldman is a genius at her craft.  Combining juvenile detailing with playful sex appeal, her outfits for the Tel Aviv based girl band, Terry Poison are as eye-catching as they are inspiring.  Showcasing an asymmetric feline intarsia, this sweater is reminiscent of the garments created by Ashish, Marc Jacobs and Comme de Garcon.  For some background, click here for Pattern Pulp’s March coverage.

Tracking Repetitive + Awesome.
On Instagram.