Fashion designer Signý Þórhallsdóttir began her career at Vivienne Westwood and is now attracting a lot of attention for her beautiful, golden printed silk.
For me, there was never really anything else I could consider than studying art. I simply felt it combined everything I enjoyed the most,
She began her internship with British fashion designer Vivienne Westwood in London and subsequently got a job as a designer, where she worked for three years for the world-famous fashion house.
"Although Vivienne Westwood's studio is well-established, it still places great emphasis on design work and creativity is still at the core of the company. It's incredibly fun and challenging to work in such an environment, and you also get to work with the history, which is somewhat characteristic of the design culture in Britain," says Signý.
Grandparents of influence
Signý designs rare and beautiful silk scarves, silk robes and more that have become a hit under the Morra brand.
"Morra is a made-up name made up of many things that I find interesting or fun. For me, Morra is a kind of personal goddess of creativity who gives me a platform to do what I enjoy," Signý explains about the origin of the name.
However, the word design was not at the forefront of her mind during her childhood.
"But my grandmother and paternal grandfather were busy sewing and building and made all kinds of things that influenced me," says Signý about her first influences in design and creativity.
The spirit reaches her from far and wide.
"When I lived in London, I found nothing more enjoyable than going to museums, for example, looking at art exhibitions at the Royal Academy and crafts at the Victoria and Albert Museum. But after I moved back home to Iceland, I look more into nature. Here, nothing compares to being outside when it comes to colors and textures. I also dig and look at a lot of handicrafts from the past," Signý explains.
More spice in the expression
Signý emphasizes print in her creations and uses only natural and environmentally friendly materials.
"When I was a teenager, I used to doodle a lot in sketchbooks, but I think my interest really started when I learned to screen print at the Academy of the Arts. Shortly after, I discovered that the industry around printed textiles is much bigger than I had suspected; a whole world of prints," says Signý, adding that after graduating, there was no other option but to do an internship with a print designer in New York to get to know that world better.
"When I design prints, I usually start by making sketches in ink or gouache, which I then work on into prints. Lately, I've been experimenting with cuts and designing garments in a variety of ways. Patterns can add another layer to the finish and spice up the expression. I find it interesting to pair patterned garments with something else, for example textured fabrics or other patterned garments."
It's possible to become addicted to silk scarves.
Signy's silk veils are beautiful works of art.
“A silk scarf completes the look like a beautiful piece of jewelry,” says Signý. “I’m fascinated by silk scarves because they are timeless accessories that can be paired with so many things and worn in so many different ways. Some people find silk scarves too frugal and are afraid to wear them, but I think they are beautiful, both frugal and casual. I especially enjoy pairing them with more casual items, big jackets or jeans, and I’ve worn mine a lot for everyday occasions. Silk scarves are also so incredibly comfortable and soft around the neck that you become addicted to them,” says Signý, laughing.
Her design is desirable as it is exceptionally beautiful, feminine and charming.
"Right now I'm most proud of my latest clothing line, Colorise II. When I design clothing and scarves, I have in mind people who want to wear quality garments with a modern yet relaxed feel."
Often visited the Christmas market
Signý says she has been to the Christmas party many times.
"I've always enjoyed dressing up for Christmas, and I usually choose something that's frugal but also comfortable and suitable for a long, nice meal. When I haven't got a new outfit for Christmas, I've appeased the Christmas cat with new combinations with an older frugal dress. At New Year's, I then go a little more in, wearing a printed silk dress and stiletto heels and adding a little glitter," Signý reveals, but what is her best fashion advice for Christmas and New Year's?
"It's about enjoying dressing up and allowing yourself to look nice during the holidays. I also recommend taking some time to be mindful and iron your clothes," says Signý cheerfully.
Here you can see one of the scarves from the Fjara line that Signý created in collaboration with Rammagerðin.
The Silken Veils in Fjöra refer to the various sea creatures and phenomena found in the Icelandic sea and shore.
Signý's veils are available in all Rammagerðin stores, but Signý has an exciting collaboration with Rammagerðin with a line of veils she calls "Fjara". It is interesting to note that Signý also decorated Rammagerðin's windows this time with shapes that also appear in the veils; red and very Christmas-like seaweed.
"Auður from Rammagerðinn contacted me last year and wondered if I would be willing to try out an idea for a tobacco scarf for Rammagerðinn and work with the harbor as a theme. The project took off and went from being one scarf to being six silk scarves with the ocean playing a central role. The line is called Fjara and refers to the various sea creatures and phenomena found on the shore and in the ocean. The drawings are hand-painted and we decided to keep the colors a little playful to offset the cold from the ocean," says Signý about the brilliant result of the collaboration.
Article sourced from frettabladid.is - Read the full interview here
