Chapter One: Pleats of Past and Present
Pleats….. a seamstress technique that has travelled through fashions history, withstanding the test of time as they influence today’s renowned fashion designer’s silhouettes… making an unapologetic statement as they parade down the runways of the biggest fashion capitals, to be brought to the streets and stylised by fashion-lovers around the world.
But like everything in fashion, forms evolve as they resurface on the style scene…
So let’s take a look at how the pleat has continued to be reimagined…. from delicate to bold, singular to multiples, simple to complex and its wonderous ability to inevitably flatter the female form.
And what better place to start then the very beginning…
These timeless folds were born in ancient Egypt, adorning the ruler’s tunics, symbolising power and wealth as they were crafted intricately by hand using natural fibres, tirelessly re-pleating after each wear. The technique flowed through to the Grecian tunic, inspired by the architecture of their great columns and then onto framing the faces of British royalty in a circular ‘ruff’, a style trademarked by Queen Elizabeth’s era.
Whisking its way through the centuries…. The pleat was once again reinspired by Mariano Fortuny, a fearless visionary of design rebelling against the restrictive women’s silhouettes of his time, only to create one of the dressmaking wonders of the world…. the ‘Delphos’ gown. A truly enthralling gown inspired by ancient Greek columns… this gown crafted in ethereal silk and weighted with glass beads has a deep consciousness of the female shape as every hand folded pleat delicately drapes over and accentuates each woman’s natural curves.
And now making its way into contemporary styles, the pleat has been revived by pioneers such as Issey Miyake and Peter Do…. breathing new life into the fold through modernised silhouettes that can be adored by all as their versatility works to flatter the diversity among women’s bodies.
Curious to know how? Stay connected and visit us next week to learn the art of illusion dressing…. Or if you just can’t wait contact us today and let’s discuss how you can style the versatile folds to flatter your individual silhouette….. oh and did we mention we designed a diamond ring in collaboration with UMUN Jewellery Studio bringing the pleat into its most modern form yet… click here to discover its beauty!
