Blue Achenbach

Blue Achenbach

Collection

Aperture, Refuge

Aperture, Refuge is a collection that builds upon the physical and conceptual nature of nests: it is an expression of vulnerability and newfound comfort. This is not simply a nostalgic reflection on home, but a focus on a bird leaving the nest, uncertain and even uncomfortable environments, a search for safety, and a transition into protective spaces. The crux of my collection is this transition and where we find refuge: it is home. 

By placing heavy coats in tandem with transparent dresses, excessive boning with soft structures, I explore vulnerability, comfort and, most importantly, where I find refuge.

The nest is the catalyst for the complex relationships we often develop with home. While the collection speaks to emotions we all interact with, Aperture, Refuge is a personal display of my own upbringing. It parallels my story of independence, vulnerability, confidence and development.

When I first examined the nest, I was inspired by their unique textural quality and ornate, natural elements. The collection aims to reflect and reference many of these organic components. From the quality of bark, to mycelium root systems, I incorporate the quality of the natural to inform my silhouettes and materiality manipulations.

Image: The Nest L.1: intricately paneled satin organza dress with draped tulle overlay and organdy bustier. sheer below the waist. matching cloche features an arrangement of handsewn beaded trims, netting, ostrich and marabou feathers across a draped satin chiffon.
Image: Yield L.2 : partially sheered shearling cape with recycled suede pigskin straps, neck and shoulder buckles, and a charmeuse lining. chiffon and satin chiffon chemises, featuring delicate shank button closures and exaggerated straps bookended by silver beads. finished with “raw” baby hems and zig-zag stitched by hand.
Image: Shed L.3:
charmeuse mini bralette with raw taffeta hem. sueded charmeuse pant with ostrich feather seams and raw organza-charmeuse waist. heavy boucle opera coat with crinkled chiffon lining, cinched at the arm by antique cufflinks. 
Image: Stripped L.4: multilayer satin organza and recycled curtain dress. blind finished neckline and raw hip slit. intentionally distressed and mended charmeuse-organdy bustle.
Image:

Sanctuary L.5: exposed cage duchess satin bustier with nude organza overlay. double faced wool wrap dress closed by fourty-two satin shank buttons and duchess satin facing. real taxidermied goose wing cloche with hand attached goose feathers, netting, and bronze bells.

Credits

Photo - Jason Renaud
Talent - Cece, Willow, Zoe, Gita
Production
Griffin Ellis
Oliver Zylstra
Dakota Mack

Video - Griffin Ellis
Talent - Willow
Score - Connor Scheff
Production
Kaya Troy


Special thanks
Greta
Elliott
Oliver
Georgia
Valeria
Josh
Ali
Isa
Azrael
Iseul
Phoenix
Daniela
& everyone else for their kindness, love and support