Christopher Fenner’s editorial summarized John Galliano’s influence in fashion. The design maestro had a major influence on the 2000s fashion in particular.
“Embedded in our sartorial consciousness is a sense of modesty for women; a demure approach that found its way into our cultural lexicon depicting the feminine as ought-to-be covered; nice, palatable, and contained. To transfigure this notion of meekness is to create a concert with the most innate aspects of femininity; empowered strength and resilience. In contrast to this narrative, of society’s well-behaved women, designers like John Galliano boast an archive of consistent rebellion against uniformity and expectation.”
In an ode to Bill Gaytten’s SS19 show, Christopher Fenner captures this essence in a delightful juxtaposition of softness with high-collared, pinafore style silhouettes; matched with heavy set boots for a contrast of the feminine form as formidable in nature. Gender-norms are wholly challenged through the curation of menswear and womenswear merged together; relaying a mood reminiscent of the English country side. Suspenders imbue a deconstructed masculinity, moving the idea of the gentle-man into a fierce-woman, and the tempered appearance of plaid punctuates the regional reference to the British Islands. The pieces are exquisitely challenging; with discreet silhouettes of early 1900s dresses constructed in sheer, almost lingerie-esque fabric.
“Fashion itself is the expression of contrasting ideas; as we shift through binary platitudes, we seek refuge in the designers who continually go forth beyond the structures laid out by the norm. In doing so, playfulness is the key, and this offering set against a backdrop of sunshine and grass, and a child’s swing; the homage to the Galliano free and kindred spirit is palpable.”
Credits:
Photographer: Christopher Fenner @christopher.fenner @raybrownpro
Model: Connie Savill @conniesavill @thehivemodels
Makeup: Lauren Griffin @laurengriffinmua @raybrownpro using @glossier
Hair: Tyron Sweeney @the_sweeney @lampostsa
Styling & Creative Direction: Ben James Adams @benjamesadams @gary_represents