Entitled the "Gathering of Flora," MOTHE's Spring/Summer 2009 collection draws inspiration from the sensual beauty of exotic flowers. Using a palette of lush purples, delicate pinks, terracotta reds, pearlescent white and beige hues, and shiny grays and blacks, Japanese-American designer May Kosaka creates enticing pieces that mimic the texture and shape of various blossoms, as well as the movement and translucency of their petals.
Take, for example, the purple Orchid Dress pictured second from top. Constructed using a lightweight silk material, the sleeveless dress boasts the luminous quality of a tropical flower (think of heliconias, hibiscuses, Birds of paradise, orchids, proteas and gingers), shimmering in the light for an undulating effect. The fabric, meanwhile, clings to the body so it feels like a caress, similar to what you would feel if you brushed a petal against your skin.The dress features a slightly unfinished hem that curves like a blooming flower and both the sleeves and skirt hemline feature a pale silver trim that makes the color pop even more.
Another inspired piece is the Petal Vest, pictured at top. The backless top features a halter-like cut _ except that the front is completely open (there are no closures along the front), so that you can wear it as a vest or overlap the two frontal flaps and secure with a wide belt for a more risqué look. Made of Japanese linen, the Petal Vest features a diagonal cut along the front edges, creating a soft, cascading effect. To add structure to the piece, wear it with MOTHE's Sculpted Belt (pictured above in Talc).
MOTHE Petal Vest, $276 and Sculpted Belt, $241.50; Dress, $335. To buy, visit MotheStudio.com. For more info on the designer, visit MayKosaka.com
