While the word ‘armor’ might not immediately spring to mind when envisioning Greta Constantine’s vibrant spring collection, it’s precisely what designer Kirk Pickersgill had in mind when crafting his new offering of upbeat formal wear.
“When you think of the word armor, you think of clothes that are there to protect you,” Pickersgill explains. “But when women go out, the clothing they put on is also the number one thing they want to be seen in; it gives you that air of confidence.”
His sculptural gowns, meticulously crafted to command attention, are certainly designed to be noticed. Drawing inspiration from glamorous figures like Diana Vreeland and Roxie Roker, Pickersgill infuses his signature luxurious materials—silks, satins, and bardos—into spring shapes that are destined to make an unforgettable entrance at any gala or special event. Many of his clientele, drawn to the bold elegance of his designs, purchase his pieces for important social occasions.
“They were amazing style icons,” Pickersgill says of his seasonal muses. “[Roxie] used to wear clothes that had volume—not in a robust way, but in the amount of fabric used.” This inherent understanding of volume and shape is evident in Pickersgill’s designs, where he masterfully creates pieces that demand space without sacrificing the overall proportion. Take, for instance, his captivating purple strapless gown, artfully ruched at the knees to accentuate an hourglass silhouette, or his black off-the-shoulder dress with a sculptural, wavy neckline. These pieces perfectly embody the essence of dramatic elegance.
However, Pickersgill’s creative spirit sometimes leads him to embrace a more playful approach. This is apparent in his tiered ruffle mini dress, rendered in a vibrant salmon pink—a frock worthy of a modern-day Marie Antoinette. While the bold, zingy colors thrive on more refined silhouettes, such as the streamlined long-sleeved jumpsuit in a refreshing lemon yellow, Pickersgill also delves into the realm of texture. Three-dimensional flower petals, artfully placed on the neckline or used as intricate trim, adorn jersey maxi dresses. Florals for spring? Perhaps not groundbreaking, but undeniably beautiful nonetheless.
Greta Constantine’s spring collection is a celebration of confidence, femininity, and the art of making a statement. Pickersgill masterfully blends the power of classic glamour with a modern sensibility, resulting in a collection that is both timeless and utterly captivating.
