'Her blood runs like mercury... Her tears like ice set onto her pale skin, her dark eyes multiply the distant moon'

An insight into the story behind Maria Lau's new A/W 09 collection 'Dark Tales'

Maria Lau's second collection entitled 'Dark Tales' contains references to traditional Japanese armour and braiding; pieces are more focused on form and structure than the previous collection giving it a harder edge and more glamorous feel. The innovative use of tights and shock-cord elastic create the black silhouettes that are punctuated by shimmering surfaces, whilst asymmetrical patterns retain an eclectic and modern feel.

'Dark Tales' envisages a Princess Warrior who has mastered the art of the Samurai sword, ready to confront a demon or god, she leads her army into the mountains. By nightfall, she is the only one left and seeks redemption in the dark waters lit by moonlight.

With oversized pendant earrings, chunky statement necklaces and bracelets to mix-and-match as well as interchangeable necklaces and headbands, the collection remains diverse and wearable.

Geometric and scale-like beads in hematine and black-plated metal form the intricate armour-like detail and are combined with black hair-like fringing and matt black hosiery that is braided by hand to create strong and vivid three-dimensional pieces. Magnetic beads in the jewellery give the wearer a sense of playfulness and opportunity, whilst the black and gun-metal grey form the colour palette for a collection that easily transforms from day into night, giving it a casual yet opulent look.

Image credits:
Concept and styling: Maria Lau
Photography: Ruby Black www.ruby-black.com
Hair and Make-up: Julia Jeckell
Model: Jemma Jade Saare at RMG Models