Ingrid Starnes AW19 Melodious Melancholy collection. Images supplied.
The latest collection from designer Ingrid Starnes is out now and is one of her favourite collections to date. The Autumn/Winter 2019 range is called Melodious Melancholy and is inspired by Shakespeare’s tragic heroine Ophelia. Her poetic and sorrowful death in Hamlet is deeply melancholic as she drowns while singing, surrounded by flowers. The designer’s interest in Shakespeare was inspired by her father-in-law, who had a deep passion for and knowledge of Shakespeare that he loved to share. He passed away last year and Ophelia was his favourite character. Over the years he had gifted many beautiful images, stories and poems that featured Ophelia.
This starting point led to a collection that is Ingrid’s personal take on modern romanticism. Already an accomplished designer with a gift for nostalgic and enchanting storytelling, she has translated Ophelia’s celestial beauty into a range with contemporary elegance and charm. It features winsome signature prints that are designed and printed locally with a new marbled silk print that is inspired by the paper marbling technique featured in the inner covers of works the designer has of Shakespeare. “This collection is one of my favourites, personal with the soft sadness and happiness that comes with memories of loved ones,” says Ingrid.
She has focused on luxurious fabrics with this collection, utilising heavy silk wool check coats, chiffon ruffle dresses, gathered viscose crepes and delicate soft merino knitwear. It features a wonderful colour palette of emerald, navy, scarlet, pink, tumeric, sky blue and caper that adds a lightness to the often monotone hues of winter. Playful ruffles, classic gingham and sweet dots have a beguiling effect while voluminous skirts, pussy bow blouses and semi-sheer fabrications up the romantic appeal of this range. It’s an elegant collection full of covetable pieces that will inspire all the dreamers this season.
Images supplied.