For inspiration for the Camilla and Marc Resort 2018 collection is Angelic Symbolism, a salute to optimism, hope, and freedom. The abstract expressionism of Helens paintings translated into a design ethos that is open and free for interpretation.

“The collection mood is sophisticated, uplifting, dynamic and celebratory. It truly came to life on a recent trip to Paris and New York where I was struck by a resounding feeling of optimism, hope and freedom. I envision this is how the wearer will feel wearing a piece from this collection,“ says Camilla Freeman-Topper.

While Camilla was in Resort-mode designing the collection, she was also divining inspiration from American abstract expressionist artist, Helen Frankenthaler. She noted her exploration of color which perfectly suited her Resort mood: Raspberry with ink, white with rose water, peach sorbet with pops of grass green, violet with lavender and ink with key fabric choices including delicate yoryu, flat georgettes, washed Satin, crinkle weave rayon crepe and fine dentelle lace.

Gestural and playful brush strokes inspired cutting techniques which facilitate movement; light fabrics cut in frills, flounces and godets, rusching that sits in juxtaposition with sharp suiting and bonded satin evening pieces.

The application of this inspiration extended to fabric choices and print designs. Washed satin to highlight saturated hues are in contrast with fine textured georgettes, which soften color like ink bleeding through canvas and matt textured cotton cloth to absorb soft pastels. Prints stories include the grenadine floral design, inspired by Helen’s blurred melting tonal palette, was illustrated in house, and is a floral jacquard abstraction. The looseness and hand illustrated nature embody the concept.

Silhouettes are super feminine. Hourglass forms with strong shoulders and neat waists. Design techniques include wrapping draped panels cut on bias, fringing textures in evening detailing, shoulder highlights with frills and tucked sleeve heads, waist focus through cutting, paneling and soft belts.