Exquisite beauties Maggie Cheung as Flying Snow & Zhang Ziyi as Moon duel in scarlet in Zhang Yimou‘s 2002 visually lavish film Hero to introduce our Sewing Techniques term project Better off Red!

‘Red is the foundation of makeup, it’s lips and fingernails. Red is a noble colour, the colour of a precious stone – rubies – as well as the colour of danger, and sometimes you have to play with danger. Red is a religious colour, it’s the colour of blood, the colour of royalty, Phaedra and so many other heroines. The red of fire and the red of battle- red is a battle between death and life.’     Yves Saint Laurent

Inspired by this most passionate of colours & in celebration of Valentino’s 50 years in fashion produce your own little red dress! Using Fall/Winter 2012-2013 trends select a silhouette & create a moodboard to support your design. In consultation with your tutor choose a pattern and fabric to create your statement in red. You will buy fabric & all notions, create the dress in muslin for fit & then in your chosen fabric. Record your inspirations & progress on your blog.

Valentino has launched his virtual museum– here’s a sneak preview of the wonders within.

Download the archive here

http://www.valentino-garavani-archives.org//#.TzmxI2DaFKo

Browse the library for Valentino: a Grand Italian Epic & Valentino’s Magic & if you haven’t seen it yet check out the dvd collection for Valentino: the Last Emperor

Due: presentation of moodboard, illustration & dress in class 11^th April

Grading: moodboard & illustration 25% innovation & trend 10% visual presentation on blog 25% finishing 40%