‘You are magic, believe it’ reads the slogan of British designer Eirinn Hayhow’s new collection PLANTASIA. Eirinn isn’t referencing fictional magic or using the phrase as a generic method of encouragement. Instead, magic sheds light on the power of everything on this earth as interconnected, including humans.
PLANTASIA, presented for London Fashion Week at The Crypt Gallery with an experience embodying the energy and waves of plants and mushrooms, invites us to ‘tune into plants and tree’s consciousness.’ In Colèchi’s Clean Fashion Podcast: The Magic of Mushrooms, Eirinn speaks of how much we don’t know about mushrooms. They can be medication, offer escapism and a solution for the planet. Mushrooms are independent organisms, which existed before us, spores can last in space, and they will most likely outlive us.
This magic which is still vastly unknown is the collection’s foundation. Eirinn Hayhow uses plant magic to share healing properties with the wearer, including alleviating anxiety, depression and nervous disorders. The diverse palette of the collection continues to echo the natural materials used throughout, including coffee, orange and banana leather which was grown by the designer.
In the spirit of collectivism, the collection involves collaborators from different disciplines, heightening the messaging of togetherness. The event acted as the perfect ground to include donated flowers from Bella Gonshorovotz allotment, Sprout Sculptures by Chloé Das Neves, Video art by Benny Bowls and lots more.
The small cast of models and forest setting show familiarity and belonging as a theme within the designer’s work. It’s always a more profound connection in understanding ourselves through nature, making the garments a product of our surroundings rather than anything else.
