Ensemble

Louis O’Reilly is a contemporary menswear designer and recent graduate of Leeds art university. O’Reilly often references historic costume throughout his practice, implementing creative pattern cutting, tailoring and fabric manipulation to produce innovative menswear garments at a ready-to-wear market level. O’Reilly’s graduate collection ‘Ensemble’ explores various styles of historic costume that were present during Napoleon’s Reign, reinterpreting the designs into a contemporary menswear collection. The design inspiration behind 'Ensemble' derives from three distinct apparel genres of 1789-1815 France, the double-breasted suit sported by the patriotic revolutionaries of 1789, The habit habillé and tight breeches favoured by the aristocrats of the French empire, and the indispensable draping greatcoat of Napoleon's soldiers Print design emerges throughout 'Ensemble' with references to historic motifs and textile patterns produced during Napoleon's reign. Neoclassical prints have been manipulated through the practice of screen print to achieve a modern outcome that elevates the contemporary aesthetic of the collection. O'Reilly implements modern tailoring techniques with the juxtaposition of technical and organic fabrics, in order to breathe a new contemporary life into the historical references while simultaneously paying homage to the craftsmanship of the historical garments. Panels sporting fastenings are featured throughout the collection creating versatility while allowing the fit and silhouette of the garments to be manipulated through different methods of closure. 'Ensemble' celebrates the legacy of French fashion, ensuring its enduring relevance in modern fashion. O’Reilly aims to continue his practice by working within a studio and assisting in producing further contemporary collections.