Skirt

Distressed denim skirt autumn/winter 2004. Designed by Blaak.

This ensemble is from Blaak's 2004 autumn/winter collection entitled Blaakistan. The inspiration came from traditional Ikat prints, kilim carpets and shibori prints, which were distorted and experimented with to give a new twist to traditional textile designs and fabrics. The result was a vibrant collection of relaxed modern clothing translating traditional ideas into wearable contemporary pieces.

Blaak are Aaron Sharif and Sachiko Okada. Their London based label was founded in 1998 while they were both still undergraduates at Central St Martins College. Their work draws inspiration from traditional dress and different cultures and ethnicities.

The black denim of the skirt has rows and clusters of black and white boucle threads machine pulled through the surface giving a random quilted effect. Each section is lined with woven black and white woven cotton tartan pattern. The skirt front has an upper contruction similar to that of a man's 18th century breeches, having a flap opening or 'falls'. It has a narrow two-piece belt with tartan covered buttons and covered buttonhole, fastened to give a slightly twisted effect. At the upper part of each panel is a patch pocket shaped to a point at the lower edge and topstitched in place. It was sold by Selfridges.