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."