Ironic Glamour. Area AW16

February 12, 2016February 12, 2016 | Design & Culture by Ed

Area is one of the most exciting, fresh brands coming from New York. The duo of Beckett Fogg and Piotrek Panszczyk are known for their modern take on vanity with the signature Braille-like pattern, already quite favoured in the city, where everything shines bright. But if talking of a shine, the new collection was all about it – the fluidic silhouettes were dazzling thanks to embellished, fluroscent stones, and the minimal dresses were poshed-up with fur stoles, fur bras and fur jackets. However, the pastel-coloured look-book had a sense of irony, as the season represented neo-glamour with a humorous edge. The young designers behind Area know their codes very well, and they are aware that they need to revisit their creative vision each season to make their fan-base grow – but what really makes this eponymous brand so unqiue is the designer’s not-so-serious attitude towards fashion.

Modern Femininity. Area SS16

September 11, 2015 | Design & Culture by Ed

I feel proud to see a Polish accent in New York. AREA is the brainchild of Beckett Fogg and Piotrek Panszczyk – a brand, which changes the meaning of femininity. Their signature Braille-effect textiles made over-sized ruffles, elongated sleeves and glamorous gowns look lady-like, but not totally. It had a lot to do with the 70’s glamorama – the make-up, the hair, the whole “eponymous” bling. But from the other side, AREA makes it specific femininity look alien. Is it because of the embossed texture? Or the over-the-knee leg covers? And then, we’ve got the pilgrim shoes with buckles that are a totally diffrent story. It seems to me, that AREA has a lot to say… and I am really interested how will it evolve!

Modern Sister-hood. Area AW15

March 27, 2015March 27, 2015 | Design & Culture by Ed

I am so proud. It’s the first time a Polish designer is really in the spotlight in New York. It’s Piotrek Panzczyk and his Parsons MA partner, Beckett Fogg, which nurture their imaginary baby since 2013 – Area. And their AW15 collection which hit the web proves, that these two are up to something big. They have a specific way of synthesising their textiles and bringing their ideas to another dimension – abstract ideas of sister-hood which is visible on their mood-board; wool and lame mixed with some ultra modern resins and materials. The polished patent flares caught my eye, just like the sleek tops which make me think of reptile’s moist skin. Everything looks sharp and sculptural. Keep an eye for this couple… and visit this fresh area.