KNIT ONE Lainey Keogh is one of the innovative knitters highlighted in a new book, Knitwear in Fashion, just published by Thames & Hudson (£12.95 in UK).
Author Sandy Black, reader in Knitwear and Fashion at the London College of Fashion, describes Lainey's ability to create "sensuality through luxurious, body-revealing textures and a fantasy, almost pre-Raphaelite mood." Her garments, she says, are sensual evocations of the "goddess in woman, alluring and empowering." Others with magic in their needles include Jean Paul Gaultier, who has always been captivated by Aran stitch patterns, and there is a picture in the book of a stunning garment from his autumn/winter 1989 collection, a slinky cable and crochet fitted dress flaring out over a thick, white floor-length skirt. The book also details exciting innovations and designs brought about by sophisticated new knitting technology. One (pictured left), combining camel hair knitted fur fabric overprinted with gold foil, creates an extraordinary cracked effect. It's by US designer Lawrence Steele, now based in Milan.
SPARKLING CAREER MOVE
Those checking out River Island's new collection (gypsy skirts, tie-dye jeans, printed tunics and waistcoats) should look out for a number of signature decorated and embellished tops and accessories. They are the work of Sara Cochrane, the NCAD graduate who won a three-month placement at the River Island headquarters in London, starting last August. This worked out so successfully for both sides that her placement has been extended to June and she has been promoted to design assistant. A skilled multi-tasker, Cochrane has been busy embroidering jackets and accessories, gaining literally hands-on experience. "I am seeing everything from start to finish." says the Coleraine-born designer. "The best thing is seeing how things work, and then the results in the shops." This colourful top, for example, is one of her customised creations (€56.50), worn with tie-dyed cropped trousers (€64.50), matching hat (€24) and sandals (€80.50).
dmcquillan@irish-times.ie