aw-2020
Chasing Happiness
Following the thread of last season, we continue with the story ‘The Blue Bird’ by Maurice Maeterlinck in 1908. For us, this season is a lot more theatrical. We delve deep into the fairy-tale-like scenes of the play, exploring Mytyl and Tyltyl’s dreams as they search for happiness.
One character that we have focused on this season is ‘Berylune’ the fairy of goodness. Inspired by her warm presence through-out the story, many of our lighter pieces are layered with white stockings, and have fairy-esque silhouettes. Berylune’s presence can also be seen within the winged floral embroidered collars and adorning the silk quilted bags. Further explorations of the Palace of Night lead us to the dark whimsical costumes of the play. We seek inspiration from local antique markets in London, in which Renli studies the detailed construction methods and finishes modernising them for our current day.
Strong red velvets appear in contrast with antique-looking striped silk-linen blends and full voluminous shapes. Beautiful hand-painted prints adorn the linings with many jackets having a variety of ways to be worn. The importance of versatility and intelligently constructed garments are key to Renli’s design thinking, with historical elements always the starting point for this. Renli believes that the theme of ‘chasing happiness’ is an important message at times like these. Remembering your roots, appreciating your loved ones and always being kind to others is more important now than ever.
Photography: Marc Hibbert
Styling: Rachel Bakewell
Hair & Make-up: Yumi Noh
Model: Cara Bregazzi
