I’M GONNA BREAK MY RUSTY CAGE AND RUN

Posted on April 13, 2013 by Teresa Cannata'

I’ve always been fascinated by art and by some painting techniques. I’ve never been good at painting, but I love watercolours (so romantic) and trompe-l’oeils. In particular, I’m fond of the idea of illusion behind the latter: the eye of the beholder is deceived because what he/she is watching is not what it seems. Works of art like the by Andrea Mantegna in the Camera degli Sposi at Palazzo Ducale in Mantua or the tomb of Rudolf Nureyev, covered by a mosaic carpet sculpture, show how art can imitate life so as to create an effect of “realer than real”.

Trompe-l’oeil has been used in fashion, too: Mary Katrantzou’s famous lampshade skirts are a good example, but the Greek designer is only one of those who have fallen for such a fascinating optical illusion. As a matter of fact, very interesting “birdcage” outfits can be found in the spring/summer 2013 collection by Thakoon.

 

The American designer has often given prints the function of expressing his art, but I think he has reached a new peak in the dress above, shaped after a birdcage. The reverse scoop neckline is reminiscent of the top of the traditional birdcages, while the beautiful all-over print includes golden cage bars, an array of multicolour birds, butterflies and flowers.

 

This is a perfect cocktail dress, which can be accessorized in many different ways. I would wear it with lemon yellow sandals by Alexander McQueen or Anouk nude suede stiletto pumps by Jimmy Choo. I would definitely pick citrine earrings (like the pear-shaped ones by Sara Weinstock or the chandelier ones by Scully & Scully) to match the cage bars, or I would emphasize the birdcage theme with a pair of dramatic Bochic earrings. Another perfect accessory would be the gold Bone cuff by Elsa Peretti for Tiffany & Co. and – why not? – a Flora scarf by Gucci, a triumph of flowers, butterflies and insects printed on white silk. If you’re feeling romantic, you can also carry an adorable Birdcage walking umbrella by Lulu Guinness.

http://www.thakoon.com/