Kira Banks
The Domed City
An Autumn/Winter 2023 Womenswear Collection which also demonstrates a masculine approach to fashion focusing on sustainable design. The collection is inspired by the future of Antarctica, drawing on the idea of Richard Buckminster Fuller’s Domed Cities that would allow for a controlled climate inside.
Taking oversized silhouette inspiration from Captain Scott VS Amundsen’s Race to the South Pole, the collection looks at archival garments worn by the explorers as a foundation to build on. Key features include large hoods and dramatic pockets as well as seams inspired by harnesses that were worn by the explorers and the Norwegian flag which was placed to confirm Amundsen’s victory. The collection uses delicate fabrics such as silk twill and satin whilst also using heavier fabrics such as cotton drill.
Prints have been driven by research into ice patterns and the Axel Heiberg Glacier that are at risk of melting due to global warming. The colour palette of the collection is taken from one of Edward Wilson’s watercolour paintings which he painted on the Terra Nova Expedition. These include cool toned greys and greens along with a pale beige and blue as accent colours.
Concentrating on a younger, powerful female muse this collection aims to sit alongside designer high end brands and rising labels such as Hamcus and Acronymn.