The spring 2011 collection of internationally renowned designer, Hussein Chalayan, was not a conventional runway show. As one would expect from Chalayan, famed for his innovative approach and use of technology in his creations presented his show in an unorthodox manner. Using only one model, a film of his collection was projected onto a wall and writers and editors were then invited in to examine the clothes and have a face to face interview with him, an opportunity greatly appreciated by the media.
Inspired by various aspects of Japanese history and culture, his film not only shows his collection but incorporates symbols referring to the source of his inspiration. The dramatic presentation appears to add to rather than overshadow the clothes themselves. From his Sakoku line based on a dark period in the history of Japan which is represented by covering the face of his model to the Japanese theatre where his beautifully delicate flower sprigged dress is shown together with threateningly hooded men waving the hemline.
Containing long black jackets with side slits, waistcoats and variations of flounced skirts, a mixture of severity and flamboyance as well as overlays of diaphanous fabrics in the dresses are the features of the collection presented by Hussein Chalayan in a tranquil and acceptable fashion.
