'As the light returns, the sky transforms to ethereal lilac dusk
Her armour becomes silver, her cheeks the colour of blossom
The now lucid waters awaken her to dawn'

An insight into the story behind Maria Lau's SS10 collection 'New Dawn'

Maria Lau's third collection entitled 'New Dawn' follows on from her previous collection 'Dark Tales' but moves to a more colourful and playful side of the brand. The collection still contains some references to traditional Japanese armour and braiding; however pieces have a more organic feel and a brighter colour palette, updating the collection perfectly for SS10. Her trademark use of tights become less of a central point in this collection, making way for use of new materials such as mini-branches of pink sea bamboo and semi-precious stones in blue lace agate and rose quartz triangles.

The tale of ‘New Dawn’ continues the story of the Samurai Princess featured in 'Dark Tales', but shows her returning to innocence and finding her redemption in the dark moonwaters. She transforms back to her youthful nature and seeks purity, which is symbolized by the jewellery progressing from dark grey and black to lilac, corals, nude and silver.

With oversized pendant earrings, long necklaces and bracelets to mix-and-match as well as an updated version of the '1000 moons' necklace, bracelet and earrings the collection remains diverse and wearable.

The use of pastel-coloured semi-precious stones, nude tights and high-shine silver give the geometric shapes and structure a softer appearance, replacing the hard-edged gun metal grey and black plated metal from the AW10 collection. Magnetic beads in the jewellery still invite the wearer to create their own playful combinations.

For Maria Lau, Spring/Summer ‘10 is a lighter, more playful season; one to be enjoyed with light rain and sunshine. Whilst structures remain sharp hinting at the danger behind her muse, the addition of organic shapes offer a softer interlude.

Image credits:
Concept and styling: Maria Lau
Photography: Sarah Jones - www.sarahjonesphotography.co.uk
Hair and Make-up: Jodie Smith - www.jodiemakeup.co.uk
Model: Jemma Jade Saare