Illustrations can't possibly be as pretty and lush (and I absolutely loathe that word!) as Vanessa da Silva's. I could possibly stare at them forever and ever and ever.... detailed, linear and balancing colour and monochrome perfectly. These are the kind of illustrations I strove to do whenever I found myself doodling away during class - except I lacked the skill and finesse that Silva so clear posesses. Hailing from Sao Paulo, Brazil (someday I need to get myself over there too....), da Silva studied at Central St.Martins and has collaborated with people as varied as Printemps department store in Paris, the electro/folk band Tung and most recently has designed prints for Basso and Brooke and Michiko Koshino. If staring at them is mesmerising enough, then imagine wearing da Silva's illustrations. Her spring summer 2007 collection entitled 'Local Luxury' consists of the perfect backdrop and context for da Silva's beautiful illustrations and the best thing (or rather the worse thing for your bank) is its now available as an online exclusive to No-one. I love how the collection is being worn here in each person's style, testament the garments' versatality. I especially love the cape and dress. If I wore the two together, anyone in the know would think I was paid to be a walking advert but for the talent that is Vanessa Da Silva, I'd gladly be that sandwich board.
Some stuff for the lads. Loving the way the guy is wearing the American Apparel gold leggings.
