*Designer Mimi Plange with one of her creations (Charnier Corney Photography)
It is flowery... it is springlike...
Mimi Plange has often been seen in the media for her talent; an introduction to her work is hardly necessary.
The name of her private viewing was entitled "Tea With Mother" and was described as a romantic celebration of ageless beauty. Inspired by the tea ceremony and decoration prints seen on tea sets, she invited us to discover her glamorous and sophisticated S/S 2013 collection while we drank tea with "Le Palais des Thés" and celebrated the Victorian Era.
*Aaron Wojack Photography
Indeed, it is undeniable to compare the blossoming of a jasmine flower (part of her inspiration) and the beautiful work of fine art of Plange. This collection shows us her sophistication, meticulousness, and creativity. It has a delicate touch and encourages you to watch all details closely. Her showroom is a garden of beauty, with squared flower bouquets suspended over static mannequins and vintage floral wallpaper decorating the walls - time seemed to stop while in the gallery.
* Childeye Photography
Plange has collaborated with Manolo Blahnik, on their Autumn Winter 2012 collection and more recently for Spring 2013. Manolo Blahnik shoes were found in this Victorian outpost, perfectly fitting the pastel mint and pink designs. Long stemmed tulip-shaped skirts, high-waisted pants closely fitting over the hip with a wasp-waist cut, silk blouses, and leather dresses were part of the collection; all featured gorgeous trapunto embroideries, decorations and matching floral embroideries.
*Childeye Photography
The garments cover most of the body but draw attention to its shape and emphasize the elegance of the female form. The Ghanaian-born designer said, "I was seduced by the photography of Tim Walker and Cecil Beaton and the ideas of pure femininity." Plange is an African designer who sees a woman as a flower, conscious of the beauty of her body.
*Aaron Wojack Photography
Today, Plange's work - let's not forget she dressed the first lady, Michelle Obama - is clearly extoling the virtues of a woman's body. While she celebrates the elegance of the female figure, she is also showing by her artistry that she doesn't only belong to Africa, she is an African designer in a contemporary world.
