PATRICK MCDOWELL’S LATEST COLLECTION IS A LOVE LETTER TO THE QUEER COMMUNITY

by Juliette Eleuterio 3 years ago

by Juliette Eleuterio 3 years ago 4min

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Titled “Catholic Fairytales”, Patrick McDowell reclaims the overwhelming opulence of the Catholic church for a celebration of queer people. Although historically the relationship between the Church and LGBTQIA+ members has not been a smooth-sail fairytale, McDowell’s latest collection turns the page for the start of a new loving and accepting chapter.

From a bold colour palette to unconventional shapes, the collection embraces all the beautiful and extravagant identities which make up the LGBTQIA+ community. Modelled by Kyle De’volle and Otamere Guobadia, Catholic Fairytales offers elongated capes, crystal-bedazzled trousers, socks and tops, as well Catholic-inspired jewellery such as crosses dangling from gloves and even an excessive pink oversized bow attached to a tall, silver jewelled mitre.

The collection, shot by photographer Aaron Bird, comes with a message. The London-based designer makes a statement in support of all those affected by HIV as he showcases a large red silk HIV-awareness ribbon. This piece was created advocating for the National AIDS Trust, a charity actively working on improving the national response to HIV.

Patrick McDowell, in his journey to uplift and represent queer people, has stated that he will partner with various institutions which support those part of the LGBTQIA+ community. We have listed resources below so you can also inform yourself, spread awareness and donate to this cause.

Catholic Fairytales will be made available for purchase on Patrick McDowell’s website from April 2021.

Credits

Designer: Patrick McDowell
Models: Kyle De’volle & Otamere Guobadia
Photographer: Aaron Bird
Videographer : Benjamin Ashpey
Stylist: Seyon Amosu
Graphics: Jean-Christophe Louviot
Hair: Laura Chadwick using Babyliss Pro
MUA: Czar Joshua Ventura using Bio glitz
Nails: Amy Williams
Shoot Assistant: Niamh Coughlan
BTS Photographer: Sabine Khabiri
Photographer assistant: Guy Gooch
Stylist assistants: Marc Biakath & Josue Orome
Hair and MUA Assistant: Lily Simmonds
Jewellery: Slim Barrett
Heeled Shoes: Natacha Marro
Gloves and stockings: House of Seyon
Fabric Partners: Taroni Silk, Manteco & Wool and the Gang
Hand Knitting: Naïve
Hand crochet: Tabitha Tinkler Ferguson