Offbeat fashion

The fashion extravaganza celebrated diversity, difference and distinction through 70 experimental creations designed by students.

“A designer does not always have to rely on a final sketch or a specific vision of a fashion piece. Various forms and methods can be experimented on to arrive at a unique garment that reflects individuality and sends out a strong fashion statement. ‘Mutations’ honours this unconventional approach to design and challenges our students to rely on their instincts and innate skills rather than to just sticking to formulaic fashion,” said Tamara Hostal, Director and Founder of Esmod Dubai.

Since the 1980s the fashion world has been challenging aesthetic conventions through their ground-breaking designs. Prominent designers such as Thierry Mugler, Alexander McQueen, Rei Kawakubo and Jean-Paul Gaultier have been renowned for challenging the ‘beautiful people’ mentality by advocating ‘the beauty of difference and the liberation of imperfection.’ Their works have gained great appreciation among today’s generation of youths who are sympathetic to pop icons such as mutant superheroes that rise above prejudice, intolerance and oppression.

The ‘Mutation Fashion Show’ capitalised on the popularity of the mutant outcast theme during its one-day run.

Esmod Dubai has already contracted Christophe Beaufays to conduct a new ‘Haute Couture & Ready-To-Wear Collections’ course in response to the growing demand for specialised fashion programmes in the Middle East.

The three-month programme, which will be offered to a select group of students and also beginners, will provide 100 per cent hands-on-training, enhance creativity and improve the draping techniques of the students.

Early next year, the school will also include new courses in jewellery design and fashion photography.