Sean Chimbani’s Faceconceptstores, founded under the pillars of sustainability, creativity and collaboration, has emerged as a timelessly appealing label to so many while breaking the mold and going against the norms of building a fashion brand. Pre-order models, considered collections and flavorful collaborations: Sean’s direction is refreshing and experimental, all while maintaining an air of familiarity we can all cling onto.
The brand’s SS21 collection, titled “Face Changes”, arrives as an homage to the past 18 months and the immense change that has come with, pulling inspiration from Sean’s very own internal monologue, as well as his interpretation of what other people’s mind has been consumed with. Pondering on the challenging times, Faceconceptstore says “If one silver lining exists, we feel the extended period of isolation has provided a unique opportunity for self-reflection. A refreshing indulgence in retrospection.”
The collection, co-designed by Amelia Ellis, arrives laden with artwork and imagery playing with the juxtaposition of clarity and uncertainty – two themes prominent in everyone’s mind through the pandemic response. This comes as scenes depicting the Garden of Eden littered with Death and devilish angels, in a duality of life & growth against death, sin and temptation. This juxtaposition is also presented through the tailoring of garments; Bermuda-style tailoring adorned with signature artwork once again provides the perfect clash of clarity and heretic vibrancy.
Two stand-out pieces, the “Oranges” sweater and “Cherub” vest are produced in collaboration with Knitwear Lab, an all-female, Amsterdam-based knitwear team working with Super Piuma organic cotton with Yarns provided by Emilcotoni. “It’s our responsibility to advise our clients on sustainable design, materials and production methods. We always aim to design the most beautiful and innovative knits in the most efficient way, while minimizing our ecological footprint. Our knitting technology allows us to knit designs entirely out of one piece, without producing waste” says the team.
The visuals for the collection came in collaboration with a diverse team of creatives, using organic garden waste to maximise sustainability while constructing the alternate Face realist scene. All garmenture sourced for the lookbook (aside from footwear) was second-hand or purchased from local, independent charity stores.
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