January 12, 2011

Drawing Fashion

First of all, I want to say a big thank you to Kate for yesterday’s hilarious and oh-too-true post. I hope none of you live in the Crapi apartments…

So I lied. I thought I was all done with London but as I was lying in bed last night, I realized I had shared everything with you except my favorite part of the trip. Not sure why I was withholding, but those days are behind us. People, I have two words for you: Design Museum. This gem on the south side of the Thames was founded by one of my idols, Terence Conran. The space is intimate and unassuming and even though it is small, the shows are impeccably curated and pack a punch. I was thrilled when I found out that one of the two current shows is a retrospective of 20th and 21st fashion illustrations called Drawing Fashion (the other is an excellent show on the architecture and design of John Pawson). It was very exciting to see a number of works by my beloved Rene Gruau, as well as more contemporary artists whose work was new to me (Antonio and Mats Gustafson). Here are a few ethereal, colorful, evocative examples from this mind-blowing show.

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October 16, 2010

I ♥ Fashion Illustrations

Here a little secret that I probably shouldn’t admit – I am a crappy drawer. (Is that even a word? Dubious. OK. Let me rephrase…) What I mean is that drawing isn’t my strong suit. Oh I can draft the hell out of something and space plan like nobody’s business but when it comes down to capturing the likeness of something or someone, I feel woefully inept. Thus, I introduce my passion for fashion illustrations to you today. As I watch Project Runway, I can’t believe that in their 30 minutes to sketch, not only do they come up with innovative ideas for clothing (mostly) but they render them on whippet thin and impossibly chic women. I am deeply envious and equally impressed. Lest you think my adoration for the form began with a reality show, let me introduce you (or re-aquaint others) to the true badasses of the field. I can’t begin to do justice to the incredible range of artists who have done this work over the years but here’s a sampling of some of my personal faves. Their ability to capture the essence of the moment with just a few select lines is truly awe inspiring.

A good place to start is Erté:

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