‘The Cuda Sisters’ consist of visual artist Tanja Jade (formerly Misery), her little sister Megan and close friend Mana. The girls have taken that cuteness and sass that many will remember from the Misery clothing line and boutique and injected it with doses of glitter and feathers.
The Cuda Sisters first collection, entitled ‘Dance the Forbidden Dance’, was inspired by a shipwrecked sea captain taken hostage by a bevy of fierce sirens of the tropics who promise to ‘make your heart bleed.’ The catwalk was surrounded by giant tropical shells, crocodiles and a tiger, setting the scene for island adventuring. ‘Mermaid girls’ in full body paint (and little else) lay about on the rocky shore awaiting the start of the show.
Models came out in cute vintage inspired crocodile-print swimsuits, flirty printed dresses and sequin shorts. A skirt made from gold bananas was a cute nod to (Christian Dior muse) Josephine Baker and her ‘danse banane.’ The collection its self puts a real emphasis on costume and fun with a touch of sophistication in silk dresses with draped cut out backs.
The hand-made accessories were an absolute highlight. Feathered headdresses, animal fascinators and bright floral, fruit laden headpieces sat on elaborate updos. Pill box sailor hats Gold coins necklaces and eye patches with gold chain inlay were strangely covetable and have me wondering, could I pull of an eye patch? I don’t care I want one.
.jpg)
What’s so great about The Cuda Sisters, is being artists, they have such a rich visual library of reference to draw from. They really know how to create a real visual experience and a narrative with their clothing. I can’t wait to see how this will translate with their online store, my heart’s bleeding in anticipation! Their online store goes live on June 23rd.
.jpg)
Check out the Cuda Sisters on Facebook here.
– Julia Ford
Photos: Alexis Brooks and Ariana Rock