The pair joins the ranks of artist/fashion design pairs like
Salvador Dali and Elsa Schiaparelli. The clothing on the catwalk was a wearable
interpretation of Enoc Perez’s architecture renderings. His signature cross-hatched paintings were
printed on dresses. There were highly
textured woven/embroidered pieces that expressed the pattern. Even the luxurious furs that are a J. Mendel
staple had elements of Perez architecture.
Less obvious were the flowing, light dresses that floated
beautifully when the models walked. Some
of the simple color blocking or solid colored frocks might have taken the
spirit of Enoc Perez’s Shapes artwork.
The handbags were chic, squared off and stylish. Aside from
the colors, they shape or finish didn't correspond to the collection and artist
inspiration.
As Gilles Mendel worked with Perez to collaborate on a
collection in tribute to his work, the artist in turn created a book of
collages as homage to Mendel’s work. With some fashion collections inspired by
an artist, the effect is often great for editorial, or even gimmicky. However this collection was thoroughly
wearable and flattering, regardless of if the customer was aware of the muse or
not. With all of the mass market “collaborations”
with designers that water down their aesthetic, I love seeing a true creative
collaboration that elevates the work of both parties.
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| photos by Mariana Leung, artwork by Enoc Perez |
