When Nature Meets Couture

We have heard of clothing that is made out of recycled materials, or eco-friendly apparels that claim to save the environment. But how many times have we heard of fashion that is inspired by nature, or rather the environment? Well, if you have watched enough of Project Runway or America’s Next Top Model, I am sure you have feasted your eyes enough on the dizzying array of designer tops, blouses and dresses. Sequins, laces, beads are some common embroideries you would see on many ladies’ wear.

Now picture this: While you are gazing in awe at the shimmering apparel on the slender figures of the models, this particular model walks out with a ”swarm of bees” on her dress. Startled, you quickly take a closer look and realise that the “bees” are but artificial visual designs on her flattering dress.

Richard Sorger is a fashion designer who is not taking the fashion scene lightly. A nature lover, Sorger decided to combine his love for nature into embellishments on women’s fashion wear. From the likes of Heidi Klum, Jennifer Lopez and Courtney Love, he has since designed fashionable “nature” apparels for celebrities. Moreover, his spectacular innovation has managed to capture the eyes of Swarovski Unbridled and the Victoria and Albert Museum which has each commissioned bespoke pieces from the designer in 2009.

Pulling on references on life and his earlier ambition to be a marine biologist, he started to distil inspiration from deep sea creatures like the jellyfish – something that fascinated him with their vibrant colours and shifting form. A perfectionist who sees beauty beyond imperfections, he chooses his subjects that are probably hideous on the surface, but beautiful at the same time. One such example is the angler fish, a monstrous looking deep sea fish which could send chills down your spine at first glance.

He has also translated his fascination for the skeletal forms of different animals – like the flamingoes – into his designs as well. Constantly amazed by the powers of nature, like how the cells of a bee hive are so perfectly formed and structured, Sorger keeps an open mind and appreciates the finer side of the less appealing things in life.

What is indeed his true motivation behind his inspiration? And why does he harbour such a deep fascination with Mother Nature? Perhaps we mere mortals could not comprehend fully the draw nature has on us. However, there are always two sides to a coin. What seems hideous to one may be a sight to behold for another. And as Sorger has rightfully emphasised, there is beauty in the ugly.

Perhaps we should, as busy people living out our modern lives, learn to appreciate nature more and see the beauty it unfolds. Amidst our hectic schedules and the hustle and bustle of everyday city life, itake a breather sometimes, to stop and bask in the glory of Mother Nature’s splendour.

We invite you to watch this video from BBC Earth regarding Richard Sorger and his inspiration behind his masterpieces, and learn to care more for our living planet.

You can also check out BBC Earth’s social space on Facebook here, or the blog here.