The Fifth Element: Inspired Fashion 15 years later

I have a confession to make...I am a small sci-fi fan.

In the week of The Fifth Elements 15 year anniversary (released on 7 May 1997) I would like to pay tribute to the GENIUS of Jean Paul Gaultier and his inspired costume design.

I have been a fan of this movie and the costume design since the tender age of 8. Back then I had decided that Jean Paul Gaultier is a visionary and now with a few extra years of wisdom to add I can confirm that he invariably is!!!

In 1998 The Visual Effects Society voted The Fifth Element as the 50th most influential visual effects film of all time. And I am inclined to agree...but (in my mind) visual effects directly translates to the make up and wardrobe.

The clothing in the film were so inspired, so out there and so futaristic the style has failed to age. It is still relevant and even shows up on today's runway.

The lines in Leeloo's Bandaged outfit has symmetry when compared to this look from Vera Wang's 2012 Ready-to-Wear collection

Leeloo in Orange Rubber "Combat" Attire

David Koma 2012 Ready-to-Wear

Even though I know that the 2012 Alexander McQueen Ready-to-Wear Range was inspired by an aquatic wonderland I do feel like it would have a place in the outer space that features in the film. A couple of the longer gown looks bear some synergy to the Diva from The Fifth Element.

Wouldn't you agree?

If you have not watched the movie and, like me, love to watch things where you get to see crazy fantastical fashion pieces come to life then do yourself a favour and watch it!! Besides the visual entertainment it is packed with great comedy by Chris Tucker and Action for the boyfriend.

Picture sources: runway looks-style.com

onthisdayinfashion.com

cyberpunkreview.com

#Love Colour Blocking

One of the things to have hit the runways overseas for spring/summer 2012 is Colour Blocking.  I am not normally one for too much colour but I surprised myself in absolutely loving this look. I love it for a few reasons.

Its Simple. Its Chic. Its bold. The loud and proud colour combinations make for a confident look

Now the real question is how do we apply it to winter? Living in the southern hemisphere we obviously want to stay on trend even if we cant "stay in season".

The rules of colour blocking are extremely simple (as is the trend).

1. Combine colours from the same family together for a harmonious look. For example is your going bright stick with bright. Or stick with pastels. Or stick with dusty colours (whatever your preference)
2. For winter perhaps choose warmer tones. Team warmer oranges and reds together.
3.Wear a neutral toned shoe to keep it simple
4. Mix it up as much as you can and bear in mind the rules of complemantary colours.
    - try lime green with melon or a rose bud pink
    - contrast deep purples with a burnt orange

Now where to find this trend on the shores of SA? As far as I've seen Country Road and Trenery have been doing well to stick with this colour blocking trend. If that is too pricey for your purse then in the past few months I have also seen Studio.W doing justice to this trend.

On this I must bid adieu. Happy Colour Blocking