Katie Battersby Wild Wood collection Part Two – Country House. Images supplied.
Katie Battersby consistently impresses with her artistic collections and her latest release follows on from her previous Wild Wood collection and is titled Part Two – Country House. The designer drew inspiration from Blur’s classic 1995 song Country House which is well known to anyone who lived through the Brit Pop era of the 90s. The song is an amusing parody of country life and is as relevant now with the idea of escaping to the country even more appealing than ever. It’s an interesting jumping off point for Katie Battersby’s romanticised version of living in the country which offers beautiful botanical prints and luscious silks that capture the imagination and the heart.
Battersby again demonstrates her considerable skills an artist utilising experimental techniques through printing, stitching and appliqué and a series of paintings which translate into bespoke prints that celebrate the beauty of nature. Her new fabrics feature intense painted blossoms reminiscent of protective camouflage. The designer has explored wet on wet media techniques to attain the fluidity necessary for the translation of the acidic floral imagery onto silk. The result is truly gorgeous with the stunning prints available in four colour ways: citron, lilac, orange-blossom and boysenberry.
Katie has also created a charming range of dresses, trousers, tops, shorts and skirts that perfectly complement the winsome silk pieces and build a covetable collection. She describes the effect as ‘luscious tropical meets Victorian austerity’ which is a great description considering the contrast of romantic Liberty wildflower cottons, high necklines, flouncing bows, sheer fabrics, and ruffles with utilitarian denim/corduroy trousers and walk shorts. The designer has also included more of her detailed appliqué t shirts and singlets (that are also available in dress lengths) which are oh so easy to wear. We can’t help be caught up in Katie Battersby’s glorious vision of summer and very much want to reside in her Country House.
Katie Battersby is also having a workroom sale this weekend where you can view and purchase the new Country House collection (with 20% off) and other sale items. It’s on Friday 7th December 10am–6pm and Saturday 8th December 10am–4pm at 9 Oakfield Ave, Mt Albert, Auckland.
Images supplied.