Every now and then I get a pleasant surprise when it comes to local designers and creatives challenging the hypocrisies of society through their creative abilities. Though these sightings are rare, it gives me some hope that we understand, that in order to make it in fashion means we have to also challenge it from a cultural and social perspective as well, as opposed to coughing up recycled styles and trends.
Clinton Duncan, designer, model, illustrator and special effects make-up artist, released his first collection ‘Till Death’ at the recently held Suriname Fashion Week. Duncan is no stranger to the creative sector in the Caribbean. From his aforementioned labels, we can see he sticks his nose in a bit of everything.
To be quite honest when I was first made aware of him venturing into designing a line, I was a little shocked as he seems more fitting, personality-wise as a stylist or model. Perhaps it was his dominant participation in such roles that hindered me from seeing him as a designer.
Nevertheless this collection, though I can’t judge on quality and finish, was eccentric and modern. The capsule bridal collection ‘Til Death’ is set to draw on the emotions of vows and promises made by newlyweds. The collection denounces traditional bridal wear in every sense. It is neither conservative nor typical. The colour palette, though it included white, was primarily focused on blacks, purples and neons. As for the silhouettes and fabrics, there was no overflow of sweetheart cuts and flounce-style tulle bottoms like a typical bridal collection. I found myself wondering which priest would allow a nipple-showing dress at the altar. Yes Duncan, went that far!
He stated that the inspiration came from his daring persona and it wasn’t until he was halfway through the collection that he realized it had an operatic quality weaved into it. He believes that such an influence was probably inspired by his training in designing for plays and musicals. Yes he is also into everything theatre.
Growing up in a more or less religious country, though rightfully secular, I imagined this could have a sour taste for many. You may even be wondering first of all, who would wear such a thing and is our society so mature to question tradition – and wedding tradition at that. Well half of the collection is already sold out.
The collection is probably more of a political statement from Duncan when it comes to social and cultural issues merged with the whole idea of being a bride and getting married. The sharpness of the white jumpsuit offers the notion that marriage should not be viewed as a fairy tale. The nipple-showing dark toned dresses are also a celebration of the woman’s body and a very significant reminder to all, that a woman can celebrate her body and herself independently, even in a marriage.
It is not left up to the discretion of her partner.
I am not sure how many will view the collection, but if there’s one thing Clinton’s idea was in line with, it’s how modern society is evolving when it comes to the whole idea of marriage and being chosen. If anything this should go down as the most interesting collection in a while from a regional designer, especially since wedding gowns worn at home tend to draw on a very fairytale Cinderella vibe, which seems to suggest that a girl should be meet certain criteria to be a wife or bride.
Clinton celebrates the woman just as she is – take it or leave it and don’t be intimidated by it.
The collection pieces cost between US$100 and US$200
Photographs are by Edward Olivier
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