Posted Tuesday 12 June 2012
With an estimated 10 million cats in the United Kingdom, Alice really got her claws into the individual's dedication to their furry companions as she developed her latest line-up of womenswear. A self-confessed cat lady in the making, she says she has always liked the comic side of fashion. "I wanted to take a light-hearted look at people's obsession with their pets," the 23 year old said. "I researched photographs and found older ladies really went to a lot of effort to be photographed with their cats, putting on glamorous outfits, jewels, and even gloves."
"There's a quilted box-like jacket that's reminiscent of plumped up furniture and cushions - the sort of thing you would be too worried to actually sit on in case you spilt your tea on it. I've also taken some vintage curtains and turned them into a dress complete with curtain pole. The cat lady cannot be separated from the home she preens and grooms."
Alice enjoyed drawing the cat prints that adorn five of the looks - one kitty even sports a monocle. The gathered shape of the curtains is a prominent feature on a white and blue printed top, while the effect of a skirt on a settee finishes off a teal quilted dress with cat print. "I was really struck by the faded glamour of some of the women in the photographs," Alice said. "They're holding on to their stylish past and this is something that appeals to people even now as can be seen in the desire for vintage clothing. My collection is twee, but not seen in a serious way - I hope it comes across as being more youthful."
There are two particular characters in Alice's childhood who have also been an inspiration in her feline fashion collection. Ginger and white Lester and black and white Jess were her cats when she was growing up. While she is without a moggy at the moment, Alice hopes to find a furry friend once she has settled and got a job. "I love cats and would really like to have one in my life again. But my studies have been so intense, it wouldn't have been fair while I was at university. One day I'll have the time again, and a garden," she said.
Senior lecturer at Kingston University's Fashion Department Andrew Ibi said Alice's collection really reflected what graduate fashion was all about. "It breaks and extends the rules, has fun and challenges the imagination while the execution is fantastic," he said. "The starting point and concept of cats has been translated carefully but without inhibition. Alice has worked very hard on the detail, the colours, the finish, illustrated textiles and exceptional cutting."
26 November 2024
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12 November 2024