'Evolution pleats' from designer Hamy
JAKARTA (JP): Indonesian designer Stephanus Hamy has launched his latest collection featuring "evolution pleats". Hamy's interpretation of pleats are not the back-to-uniform schoolgirl pleats which immediately spring to mind, but are on a textured, clingy crinkled fabric.
With no catwalk in sight, some of Indonesia's finest modeling talent wearing Hamy's latest creations weaved their way through the potted palms and tables at the Cascade lounge at Hotel Mulia Senayan during the collection's launch last weekend.
This latest of his collections featured 32 pieces in black, off-white, silver-gray and red, combining chiffon with satin- silk, plain fabrics.
The focus of this collection is on its rich colors, interesting textures and "pleat" manipulation. The collection includes clingy strappy tops, body hugging strapless tops, loose jackets, skirts and dress pants of varying lengths.
An interesting inclusion is a range of pantaloon-style, mid- calf wide pants, with wide pleats from the hips down. The collection also features some interesting cuts including pleats clock, pleats square, oriental style cuts, elegant bustled skirts and an interesting harem or genie look, with elasticized pants and skirts.
"The collection is for the energetic, sporty and stylish young woman and can be worn night or day for various occasions," said Hamy.
Hamy breaks a fashion rule in this collection, but to his advantage, by mixing and matching horizontal and vertical lines. His designs are renowned for being elegant but wearable pieces. He claims to design a stylish smart casual look, avoiding the often extravagant and unrealistic styles seen on the catwalks of the world's fashion capitals. With minimal accessories and simple cuts, Hamy seems to abide by the old adage "less is more".
With items priced at Rp 350,000 to Rp 850,000, the collection is aimed at the Indonesian professional young woman, but is reasonably priced compared to Indonesia's other top designers.
"The prices are targeted at the middle and upper class markets, and my latest collection is suitable for most Indonesian body types," he said.
Stephanus Hamy has four fashion lines: Stephanus Hamy (exclusive designs), Hamy Touch (second line) Hamy Homme (menswear) and Hamy Culture (Indonesian ethnic designs).
His latest collection is available at all four of his outlets in Sogo Plaza Indonesia, Central Jakarta; Mal Kelapa Gading Plaza, North Jakarta; and Plaza Senayan and Pasaraya both in South Jakarta. (Irene Sugiharto/Ingrid Maack)