The denim-loving designer, who is always looking for ways of treating and re-surfacing the fabric, took a trip for fall, looking at how people around the world wear their jeans.
During a presentation at Tate Modern in London, she worked pulped, recycled fabric into boiler suits and jacket and trouser combos, which she referred to as Canadian tuxedos, and dusted Swarovski crystal sparkles over other pieces, Brazilian style.
“It’s the only piece of clothing in the world that’s worn by everyone,” said Steinmetz, who last year was a finalist in the women’s wear category at the Woolmark Prize’s British Isles regional competition. “I wanted to look at how the world wears it, and share my process a bit more.”
She worked denim into kitten heel mules and boots with spats, tie-dyed it, and folded it into accordion pleats for skirts or details on jackets. Steinmetz wrinkled and sculpted it into men’s jeans (she’s introduced men’s wear for fall) and covered other jeans with fine white yarns, showing off one blue jacket that looked as if it was dusted with powdered sugar.
The collection may have been conceptual, but it was a feast for the eye. Steinmetz will no doubt put a commercial spin on many of the pieces.
