SUMMER AND SWEATERS

SUMMER AND SWEATERS

The irony of today's lecture of intricate knitwear was that it landed right on the Summer Solstice, the first day of summer in which the Parisians celebrate with a music festival in the streets.

All seasons aside, the knowledge given to us by artistic knitwear designer Xavier Brisoux, who also freelances for French fashion house Anne Valerie Hash, was immeasurable. Not only did I , (a communication student who lacks most insight on the design aspect of fashion,) learn in depth about the workings and steps of how to create knits, I also learned different techniques, a variety of stitches, as well as fabric care and what a "good knit" consists of (steer clear of cut and sew!).

Brisoux showed us his conceptual designs which all included incredible materials and subtle, yet bold, details. One collection was inspired by the mythical legend of Penelope while another was based off of the idea of your clothing becoming a second skin; the designs reflected these concepts wonderfully with wearability.

He also explained how important it is to be creative in the industry and the importance of process. For one of his own press releases, he sent out a small black box with a rubber bracelet with "XAVIER BRISOUX" printed on the sides in white with a USB cord closure-attachment. This way, instead of sending a hard-copy press release that would most likely be thrown away, he got the attention by being orginal and technologically savvy with a functional twist.

Though today's lecture was a lot to take in, it was all very informative and inspiring. I am already excited to sift through my sweaters and identify each stitch, as well as properly care for all of my pilling knits (there is actually a way to get RID of pilling!).

For the remainder of "mardi", I will be attending the street music festival. Thankfully, for the first time in days, it is beautiful out. I will be sure to keep my eyes peeled for sweaters worn by the effortlessly stylish Parisians. My own contribution to the lecture today was wearing my own black crocheted sweater, which Xavier explained was knit sideways. At least it wasn't cut and sew!

Marie Elise Bliss; 6/21/11