Sorapol AW13/14 - Immortal

Sorapol AW13/14 collection titled ‘Immortal’ tells the tale of Xiaohe, a young girl given to a Chinese Emperor as a diplomatic gift.  As she travels through Asia, India and Persia to her final destination, she becomes deluded and begins to believe that she is the ruler of every land she visits, demanding the most exquisite jewels and luxuries. Designer Sorapol Chawaphatnakul certainly succumbs to these demands with extravagant silk fabrics, lavish prints, detailed embroidery and ornate finishings.

Wooden stilt sandals restrict the models’ walk to a slow pace and elevate the models into her ‘Xiaohe’ regal persona, high above those of her lowly subjects. The ornate headpieces designed by Emily Frances Barrett, give more height and ensure she stands majestically straight.

The collection is a mix of dramatic couture creations and those of elegant and polished Ready to Wear pieces.  For drama the skirt of one heavily embroidered outfit formed a wide and exaggerated fishtail design with the contrasting silk bottom exploding in to a voluminous bubble shape and sweeping the floor with its short train. There was a hint of Victoriana with long crinoline style skirts worn with peplum jackets  but without the austerity and plainness as opulence abounded  in rich silks, gold beading and the must have accessory of the back metal structure with high collar.

The Ready to Wear pieces were equally stunning with tapestry design on coats, intricate lace and embroidery and flowing silks and chiffons.  Styles ranged from tailored boxy jackets and straight skirts to smooth silk dresses and gowns.  Adorned with gold rope piping, shining mirror embellishments, and my favourite – small colourful pom poms in fluffy faux fur.

By Karen Grace

Personal Shopper & Image Consultant for Frumpy to Funky http://www.frumpytofunky.com