Ikat is at the center of an unexpected change of emphasis at Herv Leger for its spring-summer collection. Manila-born Natori has prototypes of ikat robes and nightgowns in her New York studio that she shows to store buyers. Last year, the Italian fashion god Giorgio Armani experimented with material in the distinctive ikat design. Having used it for a 1996 collection, John Galliano revisited his fascination with the ethnic textile in 1998. What emerges is a design of shapes with uneven boundaries that seem to flow into surrounding colors.
Pieces can take years to finish.
True, the love affair could cool as quickly as it began, but that is unlikely as long as connoisseurs of antique textiles remain fascinated. Already more contemporary interpretations are being made available. The story of the international affair with ikat remains an enthralling yarn. All Rights Reserved. Terms under which this service is provided to you.