Harikrishnan's graduate collection at the London College of Fashion introduced bold silhouettes that combined sleek tailored jackets with inflatable latex trousers. The statement pieces of the exaggerated silhouettes were crafted with up to 30 individual latex panels, creating some designs that are entirely one solid color and others that create striped patterns.
To create the voluminous shapes, Harikrishnan pumped the trousers with a seven millimeter-wide inflation valve. According to the menswear designer, "I got the idea when I was playing with my dog and I started thinking about how exaggerated objects must look from such a low angle. The thought of him seeing me as a giant figure or not seeing my head at all was intriguing, so I decided to reimagine the people around me through the game of distortion—detached from the stereotypical, pre-determined notions of the human perspective."
Inflatable Latex Trousers
Harikrishnan's Designs Juxtapose Tailored Jackets & Voluminous Pants
Trend Themes
1. Exaggerated Silhouettes - Opportunity for designers to incorporate bold and unconventional shapes in their collections, challenging traditional notions of clothing.
2. Inflatable Fashion - Potential to use inflatable materials in clothing designs, allowing for adjustable, customizable and attention-grabbing garments.
3. Patterned Latex Designs - Emerging trend of creating visually striking patterns using latex material, providing unique and visually appealing options for fashion enthusiasts.
Industry Implications
1. Fashion Design - Fashion designers can explore the use of exaggerated silhouettes, inflatable materials, and patterned latex designs to create innovative and avant-garde collections.
2. Textile Manufacturing - Opportunity for textile manufacturers to develop new types of latex materials that are durable, flexible, and suitable for creating inflatable designs.
3. Fashion Retail - Fashion retailers can tap into the demand for unique and eye-catching fashion pieces by sourcing and stocking garments that incorporate exaggerated silhouettes, inflatable materials, and patterned latex designs.