Samuel revels in eclectic designs for men
Samuel revels in eclectic designs for men
Maria Endah Hulupi, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta
Highlighting a mixed-cultural theme, noted designer Samuel
Wattimena brought together contemporary ethnic details, cuts and
prints from different countries for his 2003 eclectic androgynous
collection.
The theme was evident in each of his designs with ethnic
inspirations from Japan, Africa, India and Peru, which came
across in his kimono-style shirt, Peruvian striped motif for
shirts, African safari shirts, Papuan or African-inspired strands
for skirts and the traditional dye and other details adopted to
enrich his latest collection.
"People still associate the word 'ethnic' with rustic
provincial elements, which discourage them from wearing it,"
Samuel said on the sidelines of the Male Exposure fashion show at
the Koi restaurant and gallery recently.
"I focus more on mixing cultures by adopting different
elements from various countries, including local ethnic details.
I adopt the essence of modern designs to encourage people to wear
ethnic-themed fashion."
To accomplish his goal, Samuel conducted research earlier this
year to gain valuable information from various sources, including
cultural pictures and programs from the Discovery Channel to
enrich his knowledge of the world's interesting mix of ethnic
elements.
He also worked together with local pengrajin jumputan
(traditional dye craftsmen) to provide him with various dye
motifs.
The latest collection comprises 42 androgynous designs, which
Samuel said would be highlighted in men's fashion next year.
"I sensed the need for a man to boldly express his
individualism and I want to give them a way to express it," said
the designer, who also combines masculine shirts with plunging
necklines, high slits in skirts and solid cuts from flowing
material.
His choice of fabric includes cotton, linen, silk and corduroy
to give his designs that desired androgynous effect.
The colors range from black, brown and beige to purple, soft
pink and blue. He interpreted the latter as the color of love.
"My 2003 collection is specially designed for males although
they would also nicely fit females. The collection actually works
well for both males and females," Samuel said.
Samuel's segmented targets for his new collection include
fellow artists, movie stars, singers, party-goers and also those
who love his contemporary designs.
Choreographer Jay Subiyakto, fellow designer Robby Tumewu,
former model Okky Asokawati, model/presenter Caroline Zachrie and
presenter Sarah Sechan attended the fashion show.
"I dedicate my 2003 collection to fellow artists and
entertainers," he said, while thanking the guests who approached
him after the show.
Samuel had another message to convey: "Loosen up, enjoy being
an individual and, of course, just be yourself."