Women's
A Name to Remember: Catherine Deane
“My work is a very personal expression of my observation of nature and beauty, my exploration of culture, people and places and a strong faith in an extraordinary outcome,” says designer Catherine Deane.
In 2005, the Hong Kong-based designer established her women’s wear label in London. The foundation of her designs remain grounded in the cultural references that represent her nomadic lifestyle – far flung places and fleeting moments. This Spring, Deane’s inspiration stems from Coco Chanel’s formative years, with reference to movies “Coco before Chanel” and “Coco and Igor.” Deane’s mix of masculine elements combined with feminine detail results in a modernist twist on traditional technique.
“I use the craft techniques as my starting point and develop an organic process of layering and sometimes taking away until I find I have reached a balance in each piece,” says Deane.
Deane enjoys experimenting and juxtaposing different elements, fabrics and techniques, which are crafted, layered and combined until she finds harmony. There are three prominent techniques used throughout her Spring/Summer collection: Embroidered Cutwork, Frastaglio Effect and Lever’s Lace Applique.
The “Embroidered Cutwork” technique is Victorian tradition, reflecting in intricate handwork and embroidery layered onto a tulle base. The “Frastaglio Effect” originated in Florentine workshops and uses veils of tulle that are stitched with beautiful lines of embroidery. The tulle is then cut into cord yarn, used to create refined inlay motifs that climb up the fabric. The most prominent technique in Deane’s Spring/Summer collection is the “Lever’s Lace Applique.” It was introduced in England during the 19th Century. Today, there are only machines capable of working with the number of threads needed to produce such intricate lace, a skill originally only possible by hand.
Deane’s adventurous spirit and hands on approach is evident throughout her collection. Her designs have graced the red carpet on celebrities such as Beyoncé, Fergie, Kim Kardashian and Selena Gomez, to name a few.
Catherine Deane is available in Neiman Marcus stores. The Current Event online and in stores now through Sunday, March 18 and receive a NM exclusive Moyna clutch with your select regular-priced Contemporary Sportswear or Dress Collections purchase of $350 or more.
