For the garment inspired by Balluta Buildings, the designers focused on the structure’s three prominent vertical arches, distinctive wrought iron gates, and green shutters. They created a silk print design and incorporated a red corset on the dress that mirrors the gate’s design to fit the building’s Art Nouveau style by architect Giuseppe Psaila.
”We are looking for fresh and dynamic ways to showcase Maltese architecture while supporting the remarkable work of local architects. Involving fashion provided us with the means to be innovative and creative in raising awareness about some local buildings that have distinct forms, styles and functionality. Expressing the parallel through fashion was an idea worth exploring.
Peter GingellPlanning Authority
”Presenting a bespoke fashion collection at the Awards was extremely special for us, as it married two of our passions, architecture and fashion. Both follow a very similar process, from visiting the site and developing the concept, to sketching, creating the plans for the building or the paper patterns for the garment. Both fashion and architecture express ideas of personal, social and cultural identity, reflecting the concerns of users and the ambitions of the age.
Perit Samaria and Vincienne Bezzina BAJJA
Balluta Buildings
Dar il-Hanin Samaritan
Paying homage to the work of Maltese architect Richard England, the designers focused on the meditation garden at Dar il-Ħanin Samaritan – the muse for yet another garment in the collection. The vibrant-coloured dress incorporates the garden’s journey through life from birth and beyond death, using its play of light and shadow with fluidity as a nod to the space’s water-related architectural elements.
Tarxien Temples
The garment inspired by Tarxien Temples channels this heritage site’s famously detailed carvings into the design, with a printed silk cotton shirt that features them in a striking red colour reflecting the blood of sacrifice and the use of ochre. A bodice with the oculus motif signifies the sacred areas of the temples, while the choice of fabric gives the impression of animal skin – a key aspect in prehistoric societies.
Our Lady Of Mount Carmel Parish Church
The triangular lines and vivid stained-glass windows of Our Lady of Mount Carmel parish church in Fgura inspired the last garment of the project’s collection. The beautiful piece mimics the pyramid-shaped roof of the church, with pure white satin fabric forming triangular shapes that uncover a vibrant stained glass print shirt layered underneath.
