Mary Katrantzou
Luxury crystal brand, Swarovski jewellery has announced several collaborations for Spring/Summer 2014 with designers such as Mary Katrantzou, Giles and Michael Van Der Ham.
The Swarovski Collective returns for Spring/Summer 2014, bringing with it a lineup of new and exciting talent. Joining existing members of the Collective, which includes London Fashion Week designers, Mary Katrantzou and Huishan Zhang are three upcoming talents; Sister by Sibling, Michael Van Der Ham and Alexis Mabille.
The Swarovski Collective partners span the globe, with designers who show in New York, such as Prabal Gurang, Rodarte, Suno and Band of Outsiders, Alex Mabille in Paris, and Mary Katrantzou here in London. Although all celebrated for their uniqueness, each partner is chosen for their, “cutting edge talent and ability to demonstrate exquisite craftsmanship with crystal”.
The creative platform also gives the designers financial support towards their SS14 show, as well as free creative reign to experiment with Swarovski crystals in whichever way they like.
Past designs have included an intricate burst of crystal colour adorning Mary Katrantzou’s signature prints, and beautiful intricate floral detailing on Huishan Zhang’s silk organza dresses.
Central Saint Martin’s alumnus, Michael Van Der Ham is one of the latest young designers to join the Swarovski London Collective. He said of the opportunity, “It is a huge honour to be part of the Swarovski Collective especially considering the heritage; with designers such as Elsa Schiaparelli and Christian Dior having collaborated with Swarovski in the past,”
Known for his use of texture and print, the Dutch designer got the attention of the fashion industry when he showcased multi-print dresses in his debut SS12 collection. Each season since, his signature style has remained apparent, whilst continuing to refine and become more commercially viable, so it will be interesting to see how he works Swarovski elements into this too.
“Swarovski crystal is an amazing element to have within the embellishments this season, mixed with other couture embroideries for a set of cocktail dresses. The Swarovski crystal collection is of such a high standard and is so vast that it really lifts the textures and the garments themselves,” adds Van Der Ham.
The new Swarovski Collective designers will showcase their designs at London Fashion Week this September.