Isabella Spencer-Owen

“When I saw the colour I instantly thought of a royal, dramatic garment to compliment it and immediately felt inspired to fall back into the Victorian era where they wore exaggerated with detailed garments.  I thought of Queen Victoria and the stunning outfits she would have worn as most shades of purple and blue were desired and considered a sign of royalty and wealth.

At first not knowing what the word Valour meant upon research I found it was another meaning for courage or bravery especially in the face of battle.  I thought of Joan of Arc, a heroine and saint who performed acts of valour through leadership and being a voice of reason through the French revolution. I researched the paintings of her and the armour she wore through battle and decided to play with the layers and panels on the armour.

The mood I wanted to get across was Warrior Woman, fighting in the midst of battle expressing complete courage the whole way through.  I wanted to reflect that in may garment with an edgy yet detailed look that screams strong independent, warrior woman.”

Resene Whitecliffe Colour of Fashion clothing - 2019

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