Bianca Saunders and Farah have once again joined forces to create a captivating Spring/Summer 2024 collection that pays homage to the Jamaican musician and producer Lee ‘Scratch’ Perry. Perry, known for his musical talents and artistic abilities in collage and found object artwork, served as a profound source of inspiration for the collection.
Saunders praises Perry for his multifaceted talents, noting his mastery in music production as well as his ability to create captivating artwork. Perry’s work often incorporates religious and Jamaican iconography, animal motifs, and profound mottos such as ‘good over evil’.
For this collaborative collection, Saunders worked closely with Chris O’Brien, Farah’s Global Head of Design, to delve into the brand’s archives. They drew inspiration specifically from the casual aesthetic of Farah’s pieces from the 1970s and ’80s. The goal was to reimagine traditional menswear for the modern wearer, and they achieved this by utilizing Farah’s signature hopsack fabric. Known for its casual denim-like appearance and lightweight feel, this fabric was employed in a light sand color for a button-up jacket and trousers, making them perfect for warm summer nights.
The collection boasts a total of 26 pieces, each featuring breezy and oversized silhouettes. Highlights include wide-leg trousers with an elasticated waistband, a loose-fit cotton vest cut asymmetrically at the chest, and oversized shirts with distinctive shoulder seam lines that accentuate the torso. Moreover, Saunders made sure to include graphic t-shirts inspired by Perry’s scrapbook-style artworks. These shirts showcase mystical depictions of the solar system, incorporating Perry’s unique artistic vision into the collection.
The concept of ‘good over evil’ serves as the collection’s overarching theme. Saunders expertly translates this ideology into the graphics of the collection, offering a message of hope in these tumultuous times. The vibrant and mystical designs reflect the enchanting elements of Perry’s artwork and serve as a reminder of the power of positivity.
In a departure from the traditional runway show format, Saunders chose to present the collection in a different manner. Opting for a presentation format allowed her to showcase the collection from a fresh perspective, offering viewers an immersive experience that delves deeper into the themes and creative process behind the pieces. By stepping away from the runway, Saunders provides a platform for a more comprehensive understanding of the collection’s concepts.
Bianca Saunders’ collaboration with Farah for the SS24 collection demonstrates her ability to merge cultural influences with her own unique design perspective. By drawing inspiration from Lee ‘Scratch’ Perry’s exceptional artistry and blending it with Farah’s heritage and casual aesthetic, Saunders has crafted a collection that embraces comfort, style, and an uplifting message of optimism.
Here are two useful links related to the collection:
1. Link 1: Farah’s Official Website
– This link takes you to Farah’s official website, where you can explore more of their collections and learn about the brand’s history and heritage.
2. Link 2: Bianca Saunders’ Official Website
– This link directs you to Bianca Saunders’ official website, where you can discover more about her work, collaborations, and design philosophy.
