If it were possible to quantify independence in fashion design, Laura Thapthimkuna would be off the charts. This young designer melds fashion, art and science into garments that are utterly stunning and thought-provoking.
After graduating from The International Academy of Design and Technology, Laura interned with renowned fiber artist Nick Cave. Like Cave, Laura possesses a notable confidence in her conceptual approach to fashion and with mentors such as Julian Roberts, it’s no wonder that she’s comfortable pushing boundaries and blurring the lines between fashion and art.
Inspired by scientific subjects and imagery, her current collection grew from a fascination with embryonic development and bacterial forms. She used textures found in bacteria and anatomy to propel her towards creations that have strong three-dimensional elements. With creative pieces that are voluminous and interesting from all views, whether it be the hundreds of small nodules that compose a vest or the billowing beard-shaped top that literally ensconces its wearer or the top that seems to include a built-in sling for an arm, Laura challenges notions of fashion and the very idea of clothing.
While most of her pieces would stop traffic when worn on the street, Laura is comfortable with this. After all, she says, “art is supposed to provoke people.” When articulating her vision, Laura says, “I try to design something that has interesting elements from all views. Having a strong three-dimensional aspect to my work is important; to me the front is just as important as the back and a design should honor all parts of the body it covers.”
By designing highly conceptual works, Laura clearly has eschewed the more commercial route, but it’s a decision that she’s happy with. “I can’t stand mediocrity in design,” she says. “I always try to design pieces that challenge the mind.” And others clearly share this belief in the importance of challenging traditional notions of fashion and design. The cutting-edge boutique Gamma Player recently picked up Laura’s collection and will begin carrying it with an opening evening on November 7 (See Style Events). (Kari Skaflen)
Finishing the Hat: The Fine Art of Optimo In 2011, GQ magazine featured Optimo as one of the seven best hat stores in America. It took lots of bold steps for Graham Thompson to reach the top of his game and become one of the best fine hatmakers in America.
