Dion Lee 2013 Collection Inspired by Contemporary Australian Identity.

As today is technically a Design Free Thursday, I wanted to use my wild card to talk about one of the most inspiring fashion collections I’ve seen in a little while. Although I don’t usually blog about fashion, and I certainly don’t consider myself to be an expert on the topic, I couldn’t help falling in love with the beauty of Dion Lee‘s 2013 capsule collection.

Dion was named an Australian winner of the prestigious International Woolmark Competition for which he designed this collection inspired by contemporary Australian identity. He uses sculptural, millinery shapes integrated into outerwear, referencing Australian Akubra style hats. Lee also drew inspiration from Jørn Utzon’s iconic Sydney Opera House, experimenting with construction of garments that echoed its sail-like architecture.

The stunning lookbook that accompanies this amazing collection was photographed by Stephen Ward and meticulous art-directed by Kate Rogers of Ultra Studio. Images of Lee’s sculptural silhouettes in felted wool are paired with Max Dupain’s stunning photographs of the Sydney Opera House in construction, juxtaposing black & white photography with grey, black, white and soft ombre hues from the collection.

Oh my… Talk about pure sophistication and extreme love. Ten points from me.

[Photography by Stephen Ward. Images courtesy of GOLIGHTLY.]