TOLA_MOHIKI

Traditional Japanese aesthetic theories such as wabi-sabi and shibui were the initial inspiration for the collection. These aesthetic ideals have been largely influenced by Zen Buddhist philosophy. I looked at monastic robes and traditional Japanese workwear. These inspired the silhouette and colour palette. The collection concept focuses on the hand-crafted element and puts a strong emphasis on the process of creation rather than the final product. It can be seen as an attempt to encourage people to appreciate the finer details of everything around them. The hand-crafted element is evident throughout. Contemporary industrial methods of manufacturing such as overlocking have been replaced by the more humble pinking shear for example. The hand-made element is embodied also through the textiles. Hand woven organic cotton has been used in shirting as well as a trimming in trousers and jackets Notions of imperfection as beauty for example and contrasting aesthetics such as smoothness and roughness helped to inspire the textiles. Satin weave silk and hemp blends with their beautiful slubby yet smooth texture sit alongside soft, delicately textured pure hemp herringbone weaves.