A Fairy Dance with Elisa Palomino

Written by Phoebe Fisher. Photography by Lin Vitali.

Note: The author's views are entirely his or her own and may not reflect the views of RetoxMagazine.com

During Elisa Palomino’s Spring/Summer 2012 collection catwalk I was transported to a dreamlike state as Palamino inspired by a Victorian fairy painting showcased classically cut gowns with a fantastical edge. Her latest collection entitled "A Fairy Dance" really was magical.

The collection began with a relatively gothic feel encouraged by the dramatic operatic soundtrack; black and white gowns adorned with flower stencils and theatrical fascinators graced the catwalk as a darker side to fairies was explored. This developed into a more whimsical and girly take on the theme as colours lightened up with white being the predominant canvas for flashes of red and powder blue.

Elisa Palomino's collection began with a relatively gothic feel, then developed into a more whimsical and girly take on the theme. See more images from Elisa Palomino's SS12 collection entitled 'A Fairy Dance'.

The collection reflected the fragility of sprites in the fabric choices as sheer and feathered tule created tactile and delicate pieces. Transparency also featured heavily as crochet, lace and netting were repeatedly used. Despite the revealing sheer fabrics the look remained virginal and innocent. This was contrasted with the occasional use of bold reds, harking back to old movie glamour.

Oriental influences evident in Elisa Palomino’s collection.

As expected the collection took on oriental influences with heavy embroidery, tassels and kimono style bodies; but what really completed this oriental nod was the use of elaborate headpieces. Wire and what looked like pipe cleaners was modeled into frames of cherry blossom and Japanese houses adding an avant-garde element to the collection. The use of headgear emphasised the sense of drama and completed the look ensuring an enchanted garden like feel to the show.

The collection can only be described as elegant and beautiful with crisp flowing dresses boasting splendour, which certainly had the audience transfixed.

Elisa Palomino SS12 - See more images from Elisa Palomino's SS12 collection 'A Fairy Dance'.