When you think of fashion, clothes certainly spring to mind, but with Manuel Albarren his collection is a little extra-ordinary. Metal Couture as it is fittingly called represents fashion designs made from metal. Carved to create one off designs, these creations truly are pieces of art.
After completing his studies in fashion, Manuel started to build his career, working with artists, exhibitions, alongside media projects such as cinema, video art and video clips alongside working with publicity campaigns. Metal couture is an exploration of a new direction in metal art, with the combination of metal and different materials bound together using different techniques, they are widely used in the fashion, art and cinema industry.
His collection of headpieces sees no two alike, the use of gold, silver bronze and coloured metals help to distinguish the look and feel of each piece. With many looking as though they belong in a Lady Gaga video, the creations are unique, some are simple imitating the recent feather hair accessory which has taken over the high street, while others are a glorified Hannibal Lector muzzle. While each may have taken inspiration from modern society it is clear to see the talent, passion and respect that Albarran has for his creations, and the materials he uses.
His latest collection has been developed further, and history has played a huge part, the unique designer has created pieces that no only accentuate the face but also the natural form of the body. Moving through the ages, each item represents historical fashion, which is easily recognisable.
The Roman body amour and the royal wreath headpiece have been given a 21st century look, while the bronze Tudor Ruff has been idolised eternally. The taboo subject of the female form through time has been clearly subjected through his designs, marking the hegemonic society that we are now a part of.
Albarran has given historical fashion a new lease of life in latter-day society while still allowing the true stature of fashion and design to be centre form.
- Dena Mohamed
Photography courtesy of Manuel Albarren
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