The Holy Velvet at Heart

Seeking out unique and new designers is always fun, especially when the weather is crazy (with a chance of meatballs).

Maria Soromenho has worked with fashion greats such as Craig Lawrence, Peter Pilotto and Richard Nicoll and is now working at Fannie Schiavoni. Her works are beautifully handmade and influenced by exquisite music and art. She launched her first capsule collection in August 2013 which immediately caught my eye.

The collection is brimful of intricate details and unexpected materials, which is always refreshing to see. It brings forth a sensual mystery within the blues, reds and golds and many pieces are paired with a dark lip and a dark smokey eye.

I was fortunate enough to ask her a few questions about her collection and her goals.

1. You have a very striking aesthetic. What are your inspirations when coming up with a collection?
   For my first collection I was really inspired by David Lynch's universe and my favourite film The Holy Mountain by Alexandro Jodorowsky. I'm currently working on my second collection and I've been looking at the works of Orlan, Eva Hessa, Gina Pane, Carole Schneemann and Francesca Woodman... All of this added to random moments of "inspiration" that may happen walking, on the bus, on the tube...
2. What do you believe makes a quality article of clothing?
   I guess something that you can wear a thousand times without getting tired of... And comfortable too. I have about 5 items of clothing that I almost have feelings for and that i wear repeatedly... I believe those are the good ones!
3. How would you define the style your line exemplifies?
   I wouldn't know just yet... I believe this is the beginning of a long search of what I actually want to do. I want to experiment as much as possible and I don't want to be stuck to any label or style if that makes sense... Identity will come naturally hopefully, and that will possible be my signature.
4. What are some of your fashion goals?
   My main goal is to collaborate with artists and musicians and to get stockists all over the world. I love the idea of people wearing clothes that I designed.
5. Where can readers purchase your pieces?
   In a couple of days a selection from my SS14 collection will be stocked at The Cult Mountain in Brick Lane, London. Otherwise they can get it online from the Kuji Shop (HERE) and Vespoe (HERE). And they can contact me directly for bespoke pieces.

I can't wait to see Maria's next collection and to hopefully add one of her beautiful pieces to my wardrobe!