DESIGNER GOES INTO THE BEAUTIFUL BLUE
Story by Karen Welcome
Photos by Marvan Kwan
Mikhael Kale‘s Spring/Summer 2013 collection, Seeing Blue, is a sight for sore eyes. The designer held his presentation at the Corkin Gallery in the distillery district. Models with tousled updos served as the night’s objets d’art, complete with Nike Air Force One’s. “These are dresses for girls who live in the city and kick ass,” exclaimed Kale. The collection was inspired by photographer Nigel Scott’s project, Conversations with Blue. This influential element brings their work full circle, as Scott’s work is a feature of Corkin Gallery as well.
Both artists turned the serenity of the ocean on its head, with Kale focusing on how its softness can complement the fine cut of a tuxedo when manipulated along the female form. Kale collaborated with Sarah Stevenson on three of his textiles, which underwent digital printing to mimic processes of tie dye and recreate the depths of aquatic life. His recreation presented itself not only in the colour palette, but in his layering of lace upon silk, body-conscious pleating, and decadent embroidery.
What is most appealing about Kale’s S/S13 collection is the femininity of the fabrics in juxtaposition to the sharp tailoring of each garment. Sheer dress shirts with bowties were converted into capelets, while layered asymmetrical collars revealed ocean waves. Whether in a crystal embroidered, fringed dress or a silk biker jacket, Kale’s girl is polished, enigmatic and street wise.
