Red Carpet Fashion: Saddle to Spotlight, Glamour in Motion - Isabella Down

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@_.fashion_issy._

Concept overview

My collection, Red Carpet Fashion: Saddle to Spotlight, Glamour in Motion explores newly inspired, bespoke tailoring suiting for individuals attending Red Carpet events. Drawing inspiration from the Christian Dior New Look Collection 1947–1957. I reinterpret the traditional style of tailoring with a contemporary perspective. Exploring the ideas of repetition and enlargement through bold, statement pieces.

Personal Inspiration

Growing up in the countryside, surrounded by animals and shaped by an equestrian lifestyle, has been a fundamental source of inspiration for this collection. Bringing to life the tailoring design of competition jackets in a new and dramatic outlook.

Model with black hair wearing bright blue garment with shoulder pads designed by Isabella Down. The model has a white horse they are holding on the left and a brown horse on the right.

Environmental Focus

A key aspect of my collection is advocating for how wildlife and our natural world are being affected by fashion pollution. I have incorporated subtle, personal animal prints, reimagined into a graffiti style. This contrast between expressive surface design and elegant silhouettes reflects both the beauty of fashion and the environmental challenges with the harmful reality and damaging effects linked to production processes such as material production and dyeing.

Student wearing bright blue garment with large shoulder pads whilst sitting on a swinging chair hanging from a tree
Student with black hair wearing bright blue garment - facing away from the camera whilst in a grassy area

Fashion Approach

This collection also projects my commitment about moving away from fast fashion. With an emphasis on quality over quantity. Where craftmanship, time and precision have been key factors in constructing these flawless outfits.

Student laying on grass wearing long blue garment with large shoulder pads - a horse stands above her
model striking a pose with hands on hips whilst facing forwards - wearing blue garment

Materials

Sustainable luxury materials have been used throughout my collection. I have chosen to use Dutchess Satin, Silk Dupion and pure 100% Cotton all sourced from a sustainable supplier and deadstock.

Final Statement

Ultimately, Red Carpet Fashion: Saddle to Spotlight, Glamour in Motion is about creating garments that feel both dramatic and intentional. Outfits which draw attention through their deep blue tones and sculptural silhoueuettes while remaining grounded through thoughtful design and responsible thinking.

Illustrations of blue garment designed by Isabella Down. The Illustration shows many illustrated models in a variety of poses with the garment.

Credits

Models

  • Isabella down
  • Olivia Down
  • Rocky
  • Creme

Photographer

  • Pam Down