Ethereal. Structured. Powerful. These three words define Dilara Findikoglu’s latest collection, Venus from Chaos, a striking reimagining of divine femininity. With each piece, she breathes new life into the mythology of Venus, the goddess of love and beauty, not as a passive figure of admiration, but as a force of nature—chaotic, untamed, and breathtaking.

One look directly invoked Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus, with a model draped in cascading red hair that veiled her body like a celestial shroud. She seemed like a vision, stepping forth from the waves—an ethereal being reborn from the depths of chaos itself. The unexpected touch? Safety-pin trainer-style shoes, an almost jarring contrast to the goddess-like presence. A symbol, perhaps, of Venus’ modern resurrection—raw, unfinished, a woman not just of love, but of survival and reinvention.

Findikoglu’s Venus does not simply emerge from the sea; she storms out, unafraid of the debris of the world she leaves behind. One look featured a near-transparent dress clinging to the model’s skin, as if she had just stepped from the ocean and water was falling down her body. Another look was a structured, armour-like corset entirely composed of shells, pearls, and safety pins. The juxtaposition was striking—the delicacy of the shells set against the brutal strength of the armour, hinting at the duality of womanhood. Fragility and resilience, beauty and danger, creation and destruction.

Our favourite look was a blood-red dress, a colour of love and sacrifice. It was something out of a dark fairytale, a garment you could imagine Snow White wearing in a reimagined story where she is both the hunter and the hunted, a queen in her own right. Findikoglu reminds us that femininity is not one-dimensional; women are not just from Venus, but from Mars, from every star and planet that has ever existed in the skies.

Throughout the collection, exposed safety pins served as a visual thread—a rejection of perfection, a rebellion against the polished and pristine. There was no effort to conceal the rawness; instead, the collection embraced its unfinished, chaotic beauty. These pieces did not just sit on the models; they spoke, screamed, whispered of struggle and survival, of finding light amid the dark.

And darkness did indeed set the stage. The converted warehouse venue, stark and industrial, felt almost like a portal into another world. The audience could have just as easily been queuing for Berghain as they were for Findikoglu’s vision, drawing upon her brutalist, unapologetically sensual, and unrestrained aesthetic. In the dimly lit space, the models became the only sources of light—flickering embers of a revolution in fabric.

Chaos was not merely an aesthetic choice; it was the foundation of Findikoglu’s ideology. She leaned into the idea that true creation cannot exist without destruction. Venus, often seen as a symbol of beauty and pleasure, is reframed here as a goddess of rebellion, of women’s carnal desires, of disruption and resistance. Through chaos, there is harmony. Through turmoil, there is transformation. The collection questioned control—how much do we shape our own destinies, and how much do unseen forces, like the deities of old, interfere and guide us? In this show, you didn’t just sit and watch—you sat and listened, drawn into the story woven into every look.

Perhaps Findikoglu is calling on us all to step into our godlike Venus selves—to embrace our chaos, to forge our own myths, to reclaim the power that has always been ours.

Words By Nina Carter

The post Dilara Findikoglu’s Venus from Chaos Collection an ode to divine femininity appeared first on Voir Fashion.

Every woman dreams of having designer bags on rotation, and more so now that we are well and truly in party season. Having just bought that Christmas party dress, doesn’t everyone want a multitude of bags to choose from – one for drinks with your besties, another for that work Christmas party?

Introducing Cocoon Club, a unique concept to designer bag rentals giving you a luxury bag rotation. The idea is to pay a monthly subscription fee which is a choice out of four different plans, and in return you get to choose a new bag to rent every month.

Cocoon Club call this concept ‘Bag Swaps’ so you send back your bag in order to receive the new one and it continues like this every month.
In addition to this, Flexi members can buy weekly Bag Passes in any style whenever they please in a pay as you go idea. With a plethora of designers and styles to choose from, you can’t go wrong.

At Voir HQ we had the opportunity to select a variety of bags from their archive and received an exciting package with many styles. We got to try out luxury party bags covered in jewels and sparkles, along with the classic brown styles for our vintage lovers, and not forgetting the exclusive Chanels.

Voir handpicked the best party bags from what we received along with what’s on their website ideal for December party season. We have listed them below for you to get a sense of what they offer within their subscription model.

£ 490

Rabanne bag

Read article Shop

£ 1700

Prada hobo bag

Read article Shop

Rabanne

Prada

Pictured on the left is a crossbody bag by Rabanne covered in mirrored discs and modelled with inspiration from Rabanne’s iconic 1969 collection – one of their first ever creations. On the right, and as described on Cocoon Club’s website, is the Prada Hobo Re-edition 2000s Nylon with Crystals in Black. This handbag will not fall short of dazzling everyone at the party with its embellished crystals.

£ 641

coperni swipe shoulder bag

Read article Shop

£ 855

Rabanne comet shoulder bag

Read article Shop

£ 1300

YSL monogram studded clutch in black

Read article Shop

Coperni

Another silver moment because you just can’t go wrong, and if you are not a fan of. Sparkling crystals, this Coperni Metallic Mini Swipe plain silver bag is for you. Loved by Kylie Jenner and Doja Cat, this bag will get you into the party spirit these holidays but in a slightly toned-down way. It’s a mini version of the classic oval style and features one interior compartment with a double zip opening.

Rabanne

Of course, gold is also a go to party colour you must consider. This Rabanne Comet Shoulder Bag covered in gold stars captures the essence of a NYE party and is part of the 1969 re-creations inspired by the designer’s first ever collections. It comes with gold chain straps for ‘easy and fuss-free wear’ says Cocoon Club.

Saint Laurent

Saint Laurent is an elegant classic which will add a great deal to your party looks. This Monogram Studded Clutch is the definition of sophistication including a silver YSL logo front and centre, complemented by silver studs surrounding it. This is perfect for holiday season.

Words by Zlata Gavula

The post Voir Loves: The Bag Edit – Join The Club appeared first on Voir Fashion.

Eurovision singer Loreen won twice making history by being the first woman to do so and we have an exclusive interview for you all written by Julia Sulkowska here all about her journey as a singer and the exciting things she has coming up. Advocate for acceptance and equality, Loreen empowered women everywhere with this shoot.

On the cover Loreen wears a Whitaker Malem ‘Tied-Up’ body suit, paired with Di Minno shoes as she stands in a striking power pose that fans went crazy for. The bodysuit included leg covers, all Ared together with strings, and her razor-sharp nails matching the dramatic aesthetic.

Her next look was a shining moment as she dripped in gold upon gold. She wears a Caroline Svedbom Snake Chain Dress paired with a Givenchy bracelet available at 4 Element and Di Minno gold shoes. Once again, her nails are a striking point of the look as they mirror the previous black ones and overall show off Loreen’s aesthetic.

Loreen’s final look is cold laser moment exhibiting her feminism in a suite of armour by Albert Collins. Top by Flowery He and skirt by Critter complete the look and create a dynamic and powerful look.

Click here for the magazine spread and exclusive interview.

https://www.voirfashion.co.uk/post/voir-fashion-issue-33-featuring-loreen/

Words By Zlata Gavula

The post Exclusive Behind the scenes Images Of Our Issue 33 Cover Shoot featuring Loreen appeared first on Voir Fashion.

In a Christmas gift come early, the 2024 Fashion Awards (TFA), presented by Pandora, will be fulfilling our Christmas wishes on Monday the 2nd of December at the world-famous Royal Albert Hall. The British Fashion Council (BFC) has also announced that British broadcaster and entrepreneur Maya Jama and musical artist Kojey Radical will return as beloved co-hosts for the awards, guiding us through an evening that celebrates the role of fashion at the crux of culture and entertainment, spotlighting creative talent and telling the stories of the past year in fashion.

TFA have always excelled in bringing together a global community in London, the home of fashion creativity. Working to amplify leaders of change, celebrate excellence in creativity as well as support the next generation of creative talent, this event is also the primary fundraiser of the BFC Foundation which works endlessly to promote the future of British fashion through focusing on education, grant-giving and business mentoring. Through a focus on diversity, equality, inclusion, and belonging, the BFC enables responsible growth through a dynamic and unified community that advocates for creativity, innovation, and collectively supports the industry to grow and talent to gain access. TFA is the primary fundraiser for the BFC Foundation, once again highlighting its importance not only culturally, but for the good of the creative youth.

So, in case you’ve been living under a rock, let’s meet this year’s TFA presenters! The gorgeous Maya Jama, host of mainstream television and radio shows including everyone’s favourite guilty pleasure, Love Island, has become a household name and style icon. Not only stealing our hearts on-screen, but she has also established herself as an avid supporter of British fashion and emerging creatives, even dabbling in design herself and launching a successful clothing collection with Pretty Little Thing in June 2018, followed by a second collection in February 2019 and in December 2020 launching her own face and eye masks range, MIJ Masks, with the first release selling out within 24 hours. In May 2024, Maya joined the BFC Foundation Advisory Committee, showcasing her continued commitment to supporting and championing British fashion.

Kojey Radical, British musician, creative director and mixed-media visual artist is one of the leading voices of a generation of artists and provocative storytellers. Specialising in blurring the boundaries between music genres including grime, hip hop, alternative rap and spoken word, this multi- award nominee, Kojey is an authentic and uncompromising creative force who continues to innovate both in his music and his style. The knowledge of arts and intertwining genres is especially prevalent in the fashion world, and we’re confident Kojey will once again be an expert voice and presenter this year.

Caroline Rush, Chief Executive, British Fashion Council has spoken of the duo: “We are delighted that Maya and Kojey are returning as the co-hosts this year. It was a pleasure to watch them on stage last year, their love and support of British fashion and emerging talent makes them the perfect duo for the job. I am really looking forward to seeing their dynamic energy on stage again as we celebrate the year in fashion.” And we couldn’t agree more!

Words By Isobel O’Connor

The post Maya Jama and Kojey Radical to return as co-hosts of the Fashion Awards 2024, Presented by Pandora appeared first on Voir Fashion.

£ 545

Agent Provocateur Dioni Plunge Underwired Bra

Read article Shop

£ 375

Agent Provocateur Dioni full brief

Read article Shop

Along with their 30th Anniversary coming up, Agent Provocateur have kicked off the festive season with a brand-new playful Christmas campaign starring couple Abby Clancy, model and podcaster, and her ex-footballer husband, Peter Crouch.

The festive short film was released on Wednesday 13th November, shot at The Marquis Cornwallis pub in London, and inspired by the brand’s 2015 “Love Me Tender” film.

Shot by Greg Williams in collaboration with Creative Director Sarah Shotton, the short film featured showstopping lingerie from AP’s Forever Collection, and draws on the brand’s London-cool DNA, trademark wit, and of course the must-have sensual lingerie.

£ 470

Dioni suspender

Read article Shop

Founded in 1994, Agent Provocateur’s campaign also stars long-time friends and collaborators, including an appearance from stage and screen star Jamie Winstone. Their focus is on empowering women and subverting the male gaze towards that by pushing boundaries as they continue to break ground with every collection.

watch here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IJKj2YmmHcs

Words by Zlata Gavula

The post Agent Provocateur Release Christmas Campaign Starring Abbey Clancy and Peter Crouch appeared first on Voir Fashion.

Liquid leather, also known as patent leather, is making waves this season with its ultra-glossy, high-fashion appeal. From statement jackets to bold boots, patent leather offers a sleek finish that transforms wardrobe basics into eye-catching pieces.

Here’s your complete guide to incorporating these luxurious items, whether you’re aiming for subtle shine or a full patent ensemble.

1. Patent Leather Jackets : The Statement Layer

A patent leather jacket adds instant polish, lending an edgy, modern look to any outfit. This season’s options range from classic black to vibrant colors and metallics.
• Coach Patent Leather Trench : Known for its refined craftsmanship, Coach’s patent leather trench coat layers beautifully over monochrome outfits, providing a sophisticated high-gloss look.

£ 1400

Coach Heritage C Double Breasted Leather Trench

Read article Shop

• Gap Vegan Patent Leather Jacket : For an affordable and eco-friendly

£ 30

Gap Women’s Black Jacket

Read article Shop

option, this vegan patent jacket from Gap offers a glossy finish with a modern silhouette, perfect for experimenting with the trend.

Style Tip : Pair an oversized patent leather jacket with tailored trousers for a sleek look, or layer it over jeans and a basic tee for a cool, elevated twist on casual wear.

2. Patent Leather Bags : Statement Accessories

A patent bag instantly transforms an outfit with its high-shine finish, ideal for adding a touch of glam to any look. Whether you prefer a structured mini or a bold tote, a patent leather bag is the ultimate chic accessory.

• Prada Runway Patent Leather Shoulder Bag : This bag is a versatile statement piece that pairs well with all-black outfits or alongside neutrals for a sophisticated look.

£ 2100

Prada leather shoulder bag

Read article Shop

• Saint Laurent Small Sac Patent Leather Frame Bag: With its sleek frame design, this bag brings a touch of Parisian elegance, ideal for both casual and formal styles.

£ 2105

Saint Laurent SUNSET small in patent leather

Read article Shop

• Mango Patent Leather Bag: A more budget-friendly option, Mango’s patent bag with a crocodile texture adds flair to understated outfits.

£ £25.99

Mango Patent leather-effect crocodile bag

Read article Shop

Style Tip : Look for bags with metal accents or chain straps, as these details enhance the glossy effect of the patent leather, making it an effortless choice for both day and night looks.

3. Patent Leather Boots : Head-to-Toe Gloss

Patent boots are a bold choice that bring a futuristic twist to any outfit. From knee-high styles to ankle-length options, patent boots create a sleek and eye- catching look.

• The Row Cyd Patent Leather Boots : These minimalist boots exude luxury and work seamlessly with jeans or skirts, offering a polished finish.

£ 1253

The Row Cyd patent leather ankle boots

Read article Shop

• Mango Patent Leather Heeled Boots : A chic yet affordable option, these high-shine heeled boots pair perfectly with both casual and formal outfits.

£ 49.99

Mango Kitten-heel coco boots

Read article Shop

• Saint Laurent Lee Pointed Toe Slingback Pumps : For a twist on the boot trend, these pointed-toe slingbacks offer a touch of shine that’s ideal for elevating any ensemble.

£ 860

Saint Laurent 110mm Dune pumps

Read article Shop

Style Tip : Pair patent boots with a coordinating bag or jacket to create a cohesive, high-shine look. For balance, wear with chunky knits or tailored trousers to soften the bold effect.

4. Patent Two-Piece Sets and Coats : Glossy Cohesion

For a head-turning ensemble, opt for a patent leather two-piece set or a long patent coat. These coordinated looks are ideal for fashion-forward individuals ready to make a statement.

• Animal Print Set by Zara : This striking set includes a patent leather coat with notched lapels and a mid-waist skirt, perfect for a bold, cohesive look that transitions from day to night.

£ 299

Zara ANIMAL PRINT LEATHER COAT ZW COLLECTION

Read article Shop

• Rowen Rose Patent Leather Trench Coat : This trench coat can be layered over simple outfits or styled with other leather items for a daring, editorial feel.

£ 1649

Rowen Rose vinyl-effect trench coat

Read article Shop

Style Tip : When wearing a patent set, keep accessories to a minimum to let the glossy finish stand out. A simple belt or understated earrings are enough to complete the look without overwhelming it.

Caring for Patent Leather Pieces

To keep your patent pieces in pristine condition, use a leather cleaner specifically designed for high-gloss finishes. Avoid direct sunlight to prevent discoloration, and polish gently with a soft cloth to maintain that luxurious shine.

Embrace High-Gloss Fashion

With its glossy finish, patent leather is one of the season’s most exciting trends. Whether you’re drawn to statement jackets, sleek bags, or daring two-piece sets, these pieces bring a luxurious edge to any wardrobe. Mix and match different patent items to discover your style, embracing the bold and glossy trend that’s redefining contemporary fashion.

Words by Noa Balou

The post Liquid Leather : Elevate Your Wardrobe with Patent Pieces appeared first on Voir Fashion.

He never gets out of his creative spirit. “The next day [after the show at Athens FW in April], I started the new collection, and we’ve already done half of the pieces.” And I gasp. Rarely do you meet a person who breathes with fashion so intensely, and to whom it is a source exclusively of endless joy and inspiration. The positive aura stays with us through the whole interview – Dimitris’ laughter is truly contagious – as we get on our call on a sunny September afternoon, to chat about Hounds of Love, Dimitris’ latest and upcoming collections, and why neither of us would order McDonald’s on a trip abroad.

Dimitris Strepkos was born in 1973 in Germany. Having started working as a styling assistant at the age of fifteen, he chose Costume Design at the University of the Arts London as his major. He followed this path after graduation, devoting himself to scenography and designing costumes for the theatre. But much as he adores it, that wouldn’t cover all the vibrating energy and creative spirit that are within him. No wonder then that he got involved in a variety of additional projects, from editing and preparing catalogues to creating video clips and commercials. In 2009 came high time for high fashion and the launch of his brand, Celebrity Skin. The debut collection, “Tim Burton’s Impossible Nightmare,” got him Best Designer and Best Catwalk awards at Athens Xclusive Designers Week, and started his already 15-year- long journey into the world which he’ll probably never get enough of.

His collections are not to be mistaken for any other designer’s; Strepkos is known for combining seemingly basic forms and colour palettes (blacks, nudes, and whites dominate) with imaginative twists and rich ornaments: “everything is done by hand; there’s no single machine at my atelier. Even if you see a simple bodysuit – there’s so much work in it.” Though calling his signature bodysuits “simple” would be an understatement. Suffice it to say that lovers of sequins, diamonds, and fringe will surely find something yummy there. Strepkos’ latest collection: “Daydreaming. A Poem for Katia,” caught my eye during the last Athens Fashion Week, as it definitely stood out, thanks to the more surrealist approach than the other designers presented (Voir’s report on the show can be found here: https://www.voirfashion.co.uk/post/greek-goddesses-come-to-life-highlights-from- athens-fashion-week/). I ask Dimitris if it wasn’t actually richer than any of his former collections. “After 15 years, people know my brand and my aesthetics, and I can do more expensive and luxurious stuff. That’s why it was so over the top [laughs], extra glamorous, extra extravagant.” And as Strepkos says, the inspiration behind his crystal masks, embroidered bodysuits, and layers and layers of tulle are the sensations of everyday life: “I don’t follow trends, I do rather avant-garde items. … I’m a huge art lover – so art is the first inspiration. I love … to see museums, exhibitions, … to read books, go to the theatre, see movies. Secondly, when I travel, I see things, hear music, taste different foods of every country I travel to. All of this gets inside me – and then I create.”

What is central to Strepkos’ shows is the emotional: “it’s not just about the clothes … Doing a fashion show just for 30 amazingly looking models? I don’t really aim for that. I want you to think when you see my shows. I want you to cry, laugh, I want you to remember. I want to create memories for you.” And he does so by bringing his memories onto the catwalk: “[my latest] collection was dedicated to my best friend Katia, who died from cancer … [The show] started with a clip with my personal moments with her, and then the music you were hearing was her favourite song; we used to dance to it a lot,” recalls Strepkos. “Many people didn’t know, but I opened this show with the clothes she was wearing during her last days. And when the show finished, you saw a short clip, saying ‘kisses from heaven.’ She was part of it,” he believes.

Dimitris didn’t only dedicate his anniversary show to his late friend, but actually to all his closest friends, as his take on fashion is about teamwork: “the best things are created in teams, collaboration. Friends are family.” The atmosphere in Celebrity Skin atelier seems to be very inspiring and welcoming to all the family members that are together in this great creative process: “my team works every day for hours, nights, and creates new things. In my atelier, we say ‘you can do anything.’ Anything. With this motto, we create more and more difficult stuff. We don’t go the easy way.” And as Strepkos adds, in Celebrity Skin it’s all about extravagance, constant development and experimentation, aiming higher and higher: “all the money I make, I invest in my work, shows, better materials, more and more expensive collaborations, photographers, better deals. It’s an ongoing process.”

From the talk with Dimitris one can immediately see that he is always hungry for more, and his mind never leaves the fashion mode, even in the simplest everyday situations: “fashion is a way of living. … I love it from the age 5 – I’m 51 now, and I can’t stop it. [laughs] It’s me. … I love catwalks, going to the shows of other designers, backstage, photoshoots, editing – the whole process. Being in the fashion industry is a blessing. It gives me light. … Even when I go to the supermarket and I see a new mustard, I’m like ‘let’s take a photo of this yellow here’ [laughs].” Strepkos sees fashion not commercially, but in a human way – as inborn part of one’s personality and lifestyle: “it’s in the way you think and breathe. You can’t say you do fashion by just wearing Louis Vuitton and going to posh restaurants.” Well, how do you do it then? “Fashion is in that you simply walk, listening to music on your Airpods, and you dream. You need to be a fashion dreamer.” Amen.

But in this deeper approach to the beauty and clothing industry, Strepkos stresses how crucial it is to remain humble, always aiming for a better performance: “you can’t ever say you’ve made it. You’re about to make it. The minute you say ‘I’ve made it,’ you stop being creative.” Hence, apparently when people approach Dimitris, asking which of his clothes he finds the best, he shortly answers: “the ones I haven’t created yet,” with his broad signature smile.

What impresses me the most is probably the creative freedom that is in him and his brand. But the question is whether this freedom has always been there. And even before I finish phrasing it, Strepkos responds with a definitive “yes” and another dose of laughter. He claims to be immensely lucky and grateful for his rich career path, which also made him a self-aware and mature designer: “I [used to be] a fashion show director, also one of the directors at the Fashion Week in Greece, including the last one. … [Setting] up Celebrity Skin 15 years ago, I knew what I was going to deal with. And I knew I wanted to create a brand with identity – to create clothes that didn’t exist yet.” Having observed the industry from various perspectives over the years, Strepkos saw “there [was] a gap,” and as a result, he came up with Celebrity Skin as “a place for people to express themselves.” And it worked. “I have client lists; my sponsors trust me. The brand has grown year by year, and I’m in a good place now.”

The gap Dimitris spotted was filled with clothes which go with the brand’s mottos “Dare to wear” and “Luxury you can afford.” I ask about the elaboration on the former one. “The most important thing is to be yourself. When I say ‘dare to wear,’ I mean, for instance: you have an old pair of jeans – and you combine it with one of my jackets, hats, or bags,” doing some experimentation. “You don’t have to wear a total Celebrity Skin look,” explains Strepkos. “I want [you] to feel free to dig into your closet, find things that you love, maybe something old, from your grandmother – and combine it with my clothes, being yourself. … You are the celebrity, and you create your own skin. This is what I give to the clients.”

The motto’s explanation introduces the bigger idea behind Celebrity Skin, including the brand’s name itself. After all, Strepkos could’ve opted for his own name when launching the brand, couldn’t he. Why did he go for Celebrity Skin? “For me, celebrity is not a famous person. Celebrity is every person who has identity. [In the shows, the models are of] different body shapes, older, younger, different variety of bodies because I think every person is a celebrity in their own way. And your skin is your clothes. This is what Celebrity Skin actually means – being yourself, [feeling] that your clothes are part of your personality.”

There’s also another, more pragmatic reason for the name choice: “my name is difficult to pronounce in Greece. People would always make mistakes at the beginning [Dimitris imitating the various mispronunciations, laughing] … Celebrity Skin is a more global name, something people can relate to more. … It’s different to say ‘I wear Strepkos Couture’ than ‘I wear Celebrity Skin’ – [at this point it becomes] a movement,” precisely at which Strepkos aimed.

It’s all conceptual. And it brings us back to the last collection, as Dimitris’ take on fashion, additionally influenced by his theatre background, could be felt from the beginning of the show. It was what made me feel that the show differed from the other ones at Athens FW – that it was a performance. “I’m heavily influenced by theatre,” admits Dimitris. “I don’t do fashion just for beauty – I want to create characters and tell a story when I do a catwalk,” he explains, claiming that his collections would be totally different, had it not been for his experience in theatre.

How are, then, the two kinds of the creative process different, when we compare high fashion with theatre costume design? “In theatre, everything that’s on stage is … part of a character – … a character that already exists. There are some boundaries, if you know what I mean. … On the other hand, in fashion you create your own work and the standards. There’s greater liberty. And you can’t do extremely radical things in theatre; it has its limits. Fashion doesn’t.”

That’s possibly the gist of Strepkos fashion – that fashion is liberation. Hence his attitude that, both in the industry and everyday life, one should engage in constant experimentation, non-conformist self-representation, and limitless exploration – primarily to get inspired, and to share the inspiration further: “I go out of my comfort zone every day. [For example, when] I go to another country, and even though I might get food poisoning [laughs, saying “I don’t care, whatever”], I’m like – I’m here, I’m in Morocco, let’s try it. Even if I spit it out afterwards, I’ll still try it,” he assures ironically.” [When] I go to another country, I want to know what they eat and how they cook, see what they have. You’ll never see me order McDonald’s,” he says with a smile.

The open-mindedness, with exposing oneself to new aesthetic and sensual experiences naturally also applies to the collection-creating process: “the first thing I do when I go into my atelier is put music on. I like to listen to operas, musicals, soundtracks. I can’t do anything without music. And I love different kinds of it, also finding some old, forgotten pieces,” says the anti-fan of listening to the same playlist 24/7. Just so you know, if you spot Dimitris out there in the city, don’t be surprised by him holding his phone high in the air – it’s probably him again begging Shazam to give him the title of the song he overheard while crossing the street.

What was on the speakers when working on “Daydreaming. A Poem for Katia”? “I was into the ‘80s during this collection. I was listening to the classics from Sinéad O’Connor because she also died from cancer. … And a lot of Kate Bush, who is my favourite artist. I adore her; I would die for her. [laughs] … When I heard “Cloudbusting” and “Running Up That Hill”, I decided to be a designer. She made me a designer” – believe me, you couldn’t say it more emphatically and emotionally than Dimitris. “Hounds of Love is a milestone for me – it’s like before and after Christ! [laughs],” says member of Kate Bush social media fandom. And honestly, I could perfectly imagine Kate from “Running Up That Hill” or “Wuthering Heights” dancing among Strepkos’ models, all dressed in elegant and feminine, yet somewhat surreal outfits.

That shows how what you surround yourself with actually impacts your creative work. I go on with the topic, knowing that Strepkos is also a cinema devotee. After all, his first collection was inspired by Tim Burton. What did he watch during the months preceding Athens FW? Apparently Pedro Almodóvar movies, which – with their special depiction of human emotional experience – complemented the ‘80s music in making the mood board, says Strepkos. How do films affect him? “Movies inspire me not because of costumes and what [the actors] are wearing – that’d be superficial – but through the acting. Like, when I see a movie, and it makes me cry or laugh, or think – this is the inspiration; not the aesthetics, but what it makes me feel, what it brings into my life.”

He is always in search. In search for inspo and developing himself as an emotional, creative human being. And an alternative one. That’s why you’ll find him at shows presented by some niche designers, or those that, although already established, still don’t match the level of popularity Prada or Chanel have. “I was at Romanian FW, and there was a designer, an old lady – like, 70 years old. And then I saw her clothes. It was as if she was 19, … her energy was that of a teenager,” recalls Dimitris.

We also discuss Berlin Fashion Week, which surely differs from, for instance, Milan FW, not just in prestige, but also the aesthetics: “I’ve seen amazing works [there]. They have shown passion, and I like that the designers have identity there, which I respect heavily. American stars should also look at Berlin FW to find new clothes; they’d die when seeing the texture, the pattern making, the ideas they have. You see new, radical things – this is fashion. In the more established market, they do it less and less experimental. … But in other fashion weeks, you see new fashion – and you’re like, wow, who’s this, I want to buy this, even though I can’t even pronounce the name,” says Strepkos, smiling, when remembering his visits to Serbian, Romanian, or Dubai FWs.

It only remains to ask when we’re going to get another dose of Celebrity Skin energy. “[My new show is] going to be in March. But I’m doing the campaign in October [already started; follow @celebrityskinstrepkos for more]. … And bits of my new collection will be ready in November.” What can we expect from it? “It’s going to be darker. … I’m coming back to my black black black era. [laughs] I started out as a designer of dark outfits, then I got more colourful, and now I’m coming back to my roots. It’s also more extravagant; I like this vibe now: stones, embellishments, everything!” We’ll definitely keep our eyes open at Voir.

Meanwhile, here’s a little sneak peek of what’s to come!

Images courtesy of : Michalis Lavdiotis, Dimitris Margaritis, Fenia Labropoulou, art code productions, Penny K

Written by Julia Sułkowska

The post “You need to be a fashion dreamer” – Celebrity Skin’s founder, Dimitris Strepkos, on how love for fashion (and Kate Bush) has led him through life appeared first on Voir Fashion.