ATIKA hosts a tribe of artists, each owning a creative hustle; music, painting, writing, producing. But there is one thing that certainly brings us together: fashion.
Fashion is intrinsic to our creativity and productivity - it inspires us. When I wake up in the morning, my first thought is likely: what do I feel like wearing today? I simply can't get things done if I feel uninspired by what I'm wearing.
As a dancer, clothes inspire everything; the type of movement, the style, the level of energy. A subdued outfit may make a mover less performative, whereas a bright costume may encourage movement to be bold and loud. Music plays a massive part too, but what happens when you take that away? I recently created work with movement photographer, where fashion was at the forefront and music was of little focus. We found that we allowed the visual styling to guide the energy of the room.
Clothes also have to be practical for dance, of course. For this shoot (pictured) I worked with a sixties style suit, and a noughties black jumpsuit, both from ATIKA. These pieces had elasticity to allow me to move, but enough rigidity to create clean lines on camera. As soon as I put on the suit, I felt strong and bold; it made me play around with strong and delicate shapes. When I changed into the jumpsuit, paired with an androgynous bowler hat as homage to my favourite choreographer Bob Fosse, the energy changed. My movements were smooth, internal and passionate.
Fashion loves to dance, and it seems that dance has equally impacted fashion. You'll know that if you lived through the pump shoe era, or have ever owned a tutu. Dancers are often hired for runways, and designers like Jean Paul Gaultier do not shy away from extravagant performances. Fashion and dance are two beautiful art forms and to me, a perfect pairing.
So, the next time you put on an outfit, I ask you, how does it make you move?
CREDITS
Photography: @orpheus_pho
Model: Lucy Cowie
Fashion: ATIKA London
