DANDVRAN

The Count of Saint Germain is a 17th century influential gentleman that is shrouded in mystery and amazement. He was a great conversationalist, a multiliguist, a musician, a man with a keen interest and knowledge in the sciences, and he even exercised Alchemic practices. But he wouldn't let people know his origins—only a fantastical claim that he is 500 years old and has advised Jesus at some point. People are always uncertain of him and where his wealth came, hence casting doubt on his authenticity. But he was still accepted as a noble for most and he even interceded in the Seven Year's War; he could have been the reason why Britain and France are now peaceful.

This collection is inspired by the mystery and doubt for the Count of Saint Germain. Dan Dvran’s translation and interpretation was fueled by its otherworldly effect. It is his first collection that was never sketched in detail, but only allowed a flow of feeling and discovery to mold the process of conceiving it. It is, in essence, a mixture of the designer's character, history and experiences, as well as his hopes, dreams and faith: mysterious with an undefined certainty.

The entire collection came upon through exploration of creative pattern cutting techniques, including subtraction cutting and the patterns of Madeline Vionnet, mixed with free-form draping. It is also a foray into sustainability with explorations on how to make the least to zero waste in pattern design. It is set in earthy tone to represent the ironic and intrinsic value of soil, and it also includes his personal art prints screen-printed and appliqued onto the garments. He wanted the clothes to represent a juxtaposition of occasions in life, giving informality to the formal, and finesse to street style.

Dvran believes that exploration and experimentation are the tools for doubt to be in the process of alchemy.