Friday, December 9, 2011

TONIGHT!!

Outtake: Shantel VanSanten



What a fun shoot day that I had with the beautiful Shantel VanSanten, the star of One Tree Hill and The Final Destination. We had a blast cracking jokes and slipping in our southern words like "y'all" and "fixin'". The real photos are still top secret, so stay tuned...

Wednesday, December 7, 2011

FAULT Feature: Maria Dora



One of my favorite designer friends is currently featured in FAULT Magazine. This is the second season that we have worked together and it has been an absolute joy to see what her creative mind comes up with! Stay tuned for a video by Mason Poole featuring Ira Chernova. Of course it has my vibe-y rock/glamor stamp all over it!

Future FAULT : Designer Maria Dora Interview
Maria Dora The Drammens Collection Spring 2012

Last week FAULT showcased the short-film “Ghostrider” from Los Angeles based designer Maria Dora staring Ira Chernova, whom was featured in FAULT ISSUE 8. The Designer was kind enough to send FAULT an amazing one-of piece from her latest Spring 2012 collection The Drammens. FAULT got a chance to speak with Maria Dora this past week. We found out about her design background, inspirations and plans for her line in 2012.

FAULT: Maria how are you? How was 2011 for you?

MD: Hey! Everything is good here, just getting over a cold at the moment. Both my brother and intern Allison are sick right now too, so the studio’s been quiet lately.But 2011’s was a great year — definitely full of surprises. Since I started the company this past February, 2011 was kind of insane — lots of up and down moments – but in a good way.

FAULT: Can you tell us about your design background?

MD: I ended up in design by accident — I was just trying to find an option besides law school, after getting a political science degree in 2007. An ex-boyfriend encouraged me to do the AAS degree at Parsons in NYC, so I decided to give it a shot. Parsons was a great experience, and I ended up interning at several brands, including Ohne Titel and (the now-shuttered) PHI. I went back to Los Angeles soon after graduation, and became the studio assistant for JC Obando in early 2009.

FAULT: You’ve worked for designer Juan Carlos Obando, what was that experience like?

MD: It was a valuable experience — I learned so much while I was there. He encouraged me to work on textile development — I think he was aware that if I constantly worked with my hands, I wouldn’t get bored. I learned how to airbrush, sculpt pleated silk and create complex embroidery because of him. It’s crazy — I currently don’t use any of those techniques, but the exposure certainly informs how I approach my own collection. I ended up staying there for five seasons, and I’m forever grateful that he took a chance on me.

FAULT: What made you decide to start your own collection?

MD: Honestly, it was age and money. I never thought I would have my own line — I envisioned myself working at a place like Calvin Klein or Donna Karen. But I was suddenly in my mid-twenties, realizing that if I was going to be making a certain income, might as well make clothes that spoke of my own vision – not someone else’s.

FAULT: Your pieces have so many details, is each piece hand-made?

MD: Most of the knitted and braided pieces are done by hand — I work with an amazing artisan who helps me pattern the knitted pieces, while the braided ones are individually sculpted and woven on a dress form. Although I have two interns who help me, some of the dresses, like the Ira and the Sonia, can take weeks to finish. We also have a few leather pieces that are completely hand-done as well. Those three pieces actually do not require sewing, besides the occasional snap. They rely on strategically placed slashes in the material to give them their shape — I drape each as one continuous piece of cowhide or deerskin.

FAULT: Do you have a preference of material you like to work with?

MD: At the moment, I really love knitting/crocheting with leather cord and tape — it’s something that will hopefully cross over from SS12 to AW12. Also for AW12, I just started working with a company from Wales that hand-dyes all of their yarns — I’m excited for that.

FAULT: What were some of the inspiration behind your SS12 collection, The Drammens?

MD: The research for this collection started with Norse armor and samurai undergarments — I wanted something clean and retro-futuristic, but still humble. The color palette was derived by my interpretation of Norse Mythology. Thinking about Odin, Sleipnir and the Rainbow Bridge — it inspired the shock of bright colors between the all of the white and black garments. The clothes are familiar and romantic, but bare in a nomadic sense.

FAULT: Can you tell us about the short films for The Drammens, was this your first time working with Mason Poole and Ira Chernova?

MD: These are the first films I’ve ever worked on, so I was really lucky to come across these two at different times, prior to the shoot. They’re incredible photographers, so I’m glad we could all get together and work on this project. Mason has a definite and strong vision, while Ira is smart and insightful — they’re both amazing to be around. Everyone clicked, and everyone was determined to get it done — I’m proud of how the films turned out. We purposely went the retro route, and I think it really works. They’re short and gorgeous, but tongue-in-cheek — hints of The Illustrated Man and Rumblefish come to mind.

FAULT: Do you have a favourite piece from the collection?

MD: I love all the pieces, but the white rope dress definitely got the most time — it was the first piece started, and the last one finished. There were a lot of changes, but I’m happy with how it turned out. The girls (Allison and Sonia, my other intern) always joke that it’s a unicorn, with all the silver yarns and trinkets coming out of the ‘‘tails’’. I’m cool with that comparison. I guess humor plays a big part in the labor-intensive work, it makes the process a bit more bearable.

Woven Rope Dress Spring 2012 Drammens Collection

FAULT: What do your designs reflect about yourself?

MD: For me, design is about communicating how we feel about the world around us. I love when there’s a sense of intellect and humor present, but a feeling of disquiet or doom works too. If it’s honest, then I’m content with whatever a piece may convey. I can’t separate my designs from how I feel, but then again, I have been pretty optimistic lately – so I guess that is a good thing.

FAULT: Where is your line created, and how involved are you in the production?

MD: I am based in Los Angeles, and I work out of a studio in my home. The clothes are made here as well, and I am involved in every part of production — I work directly with the leather factory and the knitters. Because of the detail and time involved, some items have to be made in the studio, which is fine — I enjoy any personal attention I can give the clothes.

FAULT: What designers/artist inspire you?

MD: I love fashion, but I try to avoid looking at other designers — there are so many talented people out there right now, it’s easy to get caught up in the current zeitgeist. I keep looking at people who are real individuals, like David Bowie or Tilda Swinton – people who are always evolving, but have a signature attitude, intrigue me.Music-wise, I was in second grade when Nevermind by Nirvana came out — definitely the formative album of my life, I could sing you every line from it. I’m really into grunge..and Biggie Smalls. I just fucking love him, haha. Film-wise, Akira Kurosawa, David Fincher and Steve McQueen are heroes in my mind — their work never gets old to me. I could watch Fight Club or Throne of Blood all day. And I just saw a screening of Shame — incredible.

FAULT: If you could create a garment for anyone who would it be and why?

MD: That’s a hard one! I love Mila Kunis, simply because she’s the voice of Meg on Family Guy. I would also jump at the chance to dress someone like Fiona Apple — I listened to Tidal until my cd wouldn’t play anymore, I loved it that much.

FAULT: What is the fashion scene like in Los Angeles?

MD: It’s changing, for the better. Los Angeles is losing the cheesy reputation. The plastic and sleaze are still around, but their presence make the beautiful things here that much more real, if that makes any sense. I feel privileged to be here at this period of time — Los Angeles can be incredibly inspiring, if you let it be.

FAULT: What are your future plans for your line?

MD: I’m already working on AW12, since we’re doing the next film in mid-January – I’m stoked for that, the concept is amazing. I’m open for whatever 2012 will bring — so many good things are happening right now.

FAULT: What is your FAULT?

Laughing too much, watching Metalocalypse on repeat, and sneaking drinks into Disneyland – I go to Disneyland way too much.

Kevin Rogers: Photographer/Set Design

Photo Assistant: Samantha Wehlauch

Model Yasmine Staub: Next Management

Brian Rogers: Stylist

Studio Assistants: Sonia Chen and Allison Weston

Location: Barcode Studios, Culver City

Amber Griffin: Hair and Makeup

Interview Leah Blewitt
Filed Under: FAULT Fashion, FAULT Magazine, FAULT USA,

Interviews Tagged With: Amber Griffin, Barcode Studios, Brian Rogers, Ira Chernova, Kevin Rogers, Maria Dora

Tuesday, December 6, 2011

Piers Morgan



Another day with my favorite guys at the Whiskey.

Check out the compelling interview about living the rockstar life and Motley Crue's latest and greatest announcement!

Tuesday, November 1, 2011

Brand Spankin' New Website!


I know...I know...It's been a long time coming.
So, here ya go! www.AmberMakeupDesign.com (ta-da!)

This site offers more of a comprehensive view of my work and of who I am. I must admit a bit of apprehension (to put it mildly) in being so open about myself, my inspirations and creative process...which sorely goes against my private nature. But I realized that we all garner insight and inspiration from each other. In my most dark times, I have learned to find beauty. My art (whether on the face, body or canvas) cannot help but reflect and point to a different kind of beauty...a deeper beauty.

I want to express my deep gratitude to my friends who supported me through this process of growth and expansion of my website.

If you, dear reader, are interested in adding more beauty into the world, reach out and contact me.

My arms are wide open.

Monday, October 31, 2011

John Dies



What an unbelievable journey...let the fun begin!

Behind the Scenes-Urban Animal




Check out the behind the scenes footage of the shoot with photographer Stephanie Diani and the Tempest Freerunners. I love creative shoots...it's what I LIVE for!

enjoy!


stephaniediani.com/#/Behind the Scenes/URBAN ANIMAL/1/thumbs

(you may have to cut and past link into browser...sorry i can't get it to link properly)

Tuesday, October 25, 2011

My Favorite Polaroids/Outtakes-pt.6



Tony Hawk is just the coolest guy...

Friday, October 21, 2011

Gotta Love Pin-up Girls!



Three pin-up girls and three shoots later we get the amazing packaging and advertising for Sensual Olive Oil...some of the best tasting olive oil on the market. And EVERYONE knows how much I love olive oil. Doing the makeup and hair for these shoots was a big task, but so much fun. Great company, great models and great food!

www.sensualoliveoil.com
Look for it in your local market.
Photography by Tom Keller

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

RIP Norman Corwin



Known as American radio’s ‘poet laureate,’ Norman Corwin has passed away at the age of 101. I am so honored to have spent a day with the legend, who's charm and wit made for an unforgettable and special shoot. I cannot express how much happiness he brought to me (and the rest of the crew) that day and how much the industry will miss him. Thank you WGA for bringing me on the shoot. And thank you Norman, for being so wise, poetic and so deeply charming. Cheers to you, Norman, for a life well lived.

Tuesday, October 4, 2011

My Favorite Polaroids/Outtakes-pt.5



Here I am with THE FABULOUS Veranda Covers...oh yeah, baby!

Wednesday, September 14, 2011

My Favorite Polaroids/Outtakes-pt.4




Trying to steal Mark's wallet without him knowing it...
Yeah, I probably should just stick to make-up!

Tuesday, September 6, 2011

My Favorite Polaroids/Outtakes-pt.3

Here I am with a billy goat...



My favorite fellow Texan, Billy Gibbons.
Much Love!

Friday, August 26, 2011

Urban Animals: The Hunted

WARNING: This is a longer post than usual, so please hang in there with me, will ya? Come on now,...it will be fun!

Let's get down to it, shall we? This photo story is a comment on humanity's role in the extinction of animals. I know, I know, I know.... Nobody really wants to think about this, given our current "economical crisis." I think that if we don't look at what we are doing and how we are living, then we will cause even a greater crisis for our future.

When photographer, Stephanie Diani, approached me with the initial idea, I was drawn to her thoughts about how humans and animals co-exist in our urban environment. Collaborating with her to bring ideas into visual reality is such a pleasurable adventure...especially with this project! On a personal note: I am not commenting solely about the hunting of animals with guns, but how we are consciously and unconsciously killing the things we need (and love).

In this mythological story, you never see the hunter but it's obvious that these creatures are running for their lives. They are hunted for their monetary value and beauty...even their blood is gold.

The current rate of extinction is 100-1000 times higher than the average (or background rate) making our current period the 6th major mass extinction in the planet's history. Just look at these amazing creatures that are gone forever: Tasmanian Tiger; Quagga; Golden Toad; Baiji Dolphin; and probably the most tragic of extinction stories, the lowly Passenger Pigeon. Seriously, take the time and look up these beautiful creatures online. There are so many more on the extinction list right now...at the very moment you are reading this.

It is time that we take responsibility for our own personal lives. Every individual's choices really do make a difference. Change happens first at home...in the little things we do. Let us live respectfully, responsibly and with integrity.













photographer: Stephanie Diani
models: Tempest Freerunning Team
styling: Tammi Merheb

To achieve the blue-green color, I custom blended Temptu's DURA 405, 406, 407, and 031. The targets were airbrushed with DURA black and brown.







Tuesday, August 16, 2011

Temptu Rocks



rocking some crazy airbrushed creations with my students in the advanced airbrushing class at temptu. yeah, these classes rule!

Sunday, August 14, 2011

My Favorite Polaroids/Outtakes-pt.2



This picture pretty much says it all...

Demon, Moby and Heather Graham

Thursday, August 11, 2011

James L. Brooks



What a privilege it was to work with the legendary James L. Brooks! His office alone has such history...filled with awards and one of a kind pictures from his years in this industry. James is among an elite group of seven directors who have won best Picture, Best Director and Best Screenplay (Original/Adapted) for the same film (Terms of Endearment). He has also won 19 Prime Time Emmy awards - more than any person in history! Such an accomplished person and such a delight.

photography: tom keller

Tuesday, August 9, 2011

Stand In



here i am standing in for academy award winner, mark boal. ("the hurt locker")
wish i could show you the real picture, but i'm still sworn to secrecy...

Monday, August 8, 2011

Cherry




www.cherrythemovie.com

check it out...official selection of SXSW film festival!
had a blast working with kyle, laura and britt on the cover shoot for this hilarious and endearing movie.

Friday, August 5, 2011

My Favorite Polaroids/Outtakes-pt.1



How cool are these guys...seriously.

Tommy Lee, David Johansen and Nikki Sixx

Tuesday, August 2, 2011

Light My Fire





a few outtakes of our crew from the shoot for Medtronics...

photographer: Tom Keller

Friday, July 29, 2011

Bailey Blue Lookbook 2012



It's no secret how much I adore fashion. Look books are especially fun, most notably if you are working with these three talented sisters: Randi, Jaclyn and Shelby- the creators of the feel good fashion line, Bailey Blue.
"We love designing clothes that make women feel amazing, while at work or at play. That is what Bailey Blue is all about."

Baily blue is currently selling in major department stores and specialty stores nationwide.

photographed by Luke Wooden.

www.baileyblueclothing.com

Monday, July 25, 2011

Featured on Young and Pretty Blog

Rock Royalty and Red Carpets: How Amber Griffin Became the Queen of Make Up in LA
Re-posted from the Young and Pretty Blog: www.yandp.tv

Reported by Teddi Curtis
Photographed by Laura Sortwell



From the quaint house in Topanga with the stunning mountain view to the beautifully minimalistic decor, it is clear from the get go that Amber Griffin is an artistic soul who needs tranquility, space, and comfort to evolve her masterpieces. Her dark hair in a delightfully casual pony tail, her petite frame in skinny jeans and a boldly striped black and white long sleeved tee, Amber opens the door with a greeting as warm as it is soft-spoken. Immediately our hostess has given Laura an afternoon mimosa, handed me a coconut water, and we’re off and running, into the world of opposites that is Amber Griffin’s cosmetic genius. Light and dark, shallow and deep, it is contrast that has made this delicate looking woman such a powerhouse in Los Angeles’ world of smoke and mirrors. A full list of events for which Amber has worked her magic can be found on her site and includes the Academy Awards, the Grammys, and the Billboard Awards, to name a few.



The talent she is responsible for prettifying ranges from James Blunt and Jason Mraz to Smashing Pumpkins and long time customers (and friends) Motley Crue. How does one begin the trajectory that leads to such stature? An ice skating injury as a high school senior it turns out; “I had no hobbies, all I did was train. I had to learn how to walk again”. Learn to walk she did, and when it became clear that traveling with the Ice Capades was no longer in the cards, learning how to design clothes followed shortly after. It was in fashion school that the beauty bug bit Amber hard and led her to experiment with makeup. Starting with burn victims, Amber discovered the transformative powers that makeup holds, a beginning that has left her with a love of the phoenix as a symbol and a more internal view of makeup’s effects. While all of her assistants had to learn their trade in beauty school, Amber moved into the world of airbrush makeup and star studded jobs with a shoot for Dub Magazine, specializing in not celebrity styling, but cars. Fascinated by the airbrush work she saw the guys perform while detailing, she began to develop her painted style. “I like things that are painted and have a lot of texture… if you’ve got your skill level, it’s there, you can go crazy and do whatever you like”. Responsible for the beautiful and haunting images in Motley Crue’s Nikki Sixx’s book “This is Gonna Hurt: Music, Photography, and Life Through the Distorted Lens of Nikki Sixx”, Laura and I are able to see the depth and complexity that Amber has managed to communicate through a commonly considered ‘perfection’ industry. Rebelling against the day’s obsession with computer generated art and retouched magazines, Amber’s allegiance is to the authentic vision of a person, “that’s what I love about art, when you see the imperfection in a line, that’s the artist’s hand in that… I like beauty in the darker places”. Clearly the industry seems to like beauty wherever Amber does.



We slowed down with Amber to get to know the woman behind the brush a little better.

When did you fall in love with makeup as an art form?

When I was in college, I studied fashion design and was deeply inspired by haute couture as an art form. I was drawn to the creativity but also the high skill level that was the foundation for these amazing pieces. Being in art school, I was always drawing, painting, sculpting and, up until that point, sewing. This is where I discovered make-up artistry and, basically, it was all over from that point on. The moment I realized that a person can be a canvas, I knew in my bones that this was for me. I felt inspired and completely breathless at the same time. You know that feeling? I absolutely fell in love.



Are there any themes you often try to explore using makeup?

It varies from job to job as to what we are trying to accomplish. When I get artistic freedom, I tend to lean towards challenging the standards of commercial beauty. Iʼm interested in provoking the viewer into reevaluating their own definition of beauty. And since I come from a fashion background, my style tends to be more “fashion” with a rock nʼ roll edge.



You’ve spoken about your interest in transformation, can you expand on that and how it effects your style?

When I first started doing makeup professionally, I worked a lot with people who had burns, scars or some other skin trauma. I would mix all kinds of products to get the right shades and consistency to conceal it to be less noticeable in public. These peopleʼs lives improved because of makeup, and I just think that is amazing. It can completely transform the face and body…and lives. This is how I eventually developed my own style of makeup application- beginning with tones to sculpt and then moving into color to accent.



How has it been working with Motley Crue for so many years?

I am truly honored to work with such legendary rockers as the Crue. Getting to know them over the years has been an absolute blast. They are awesome guys and we have had a lot of fun adventures together. I have also been collaborating with Nikki Sixx over the years on various projects like SIXX:AM; his books “The Heroin Diaries” and his latest “This Is Gonna Hurt;” his radio show “Sixx Sense” as well as his clothing line Royal Underground and whatever cool ideas his wild imagination comes up with.



Do you learn a lot about people while doing their makeup?

Anyone involved in shoots can tell you that itʼs pretty much the quickest way to get to know someone-the good, the bad and the ugly! This is especially true of makeup artists. Within minutes of meeting someone for the first time, I am in their personal space, touching their face and talking about, well…pretty much everything you can imagine! Each time I work with someone, our relationship gets stronger since we get to know each other at such an accelerated pace. I love it because there is a built in level of trust that, under normal circumstances, takes a long time to develop. Some of my clients whom Iʼve worked with for years have turned into true friendships based on mutual trust and creativity. I am a very private person and I never speak about what is discussed while in my chair-but letʼs just say I know a lot of secrets about a lot of people!



What rock band have you had an especially memorable experience working with?

I have had so many memorable experiences, that itʼs hard to pick my favorite. One time I was on the tour bus with Motley Crue and we drove right in front of the house that they lived in together in Hollywood when they first started out as a band. We joked about jumping out right then and knocking on the door. Then there was the crazy time I spent in Vegas with Vince Neil shooting for his solo album and book. I also have great memories of shooting with James Blunt on the back lot at Universal Studios-on probably the hottest day ever, and with Dead by Sunrise at Vasquez Rocks (which looks like a completely other planet). And then there was this time with the Smashing Pumpkins where we were shooting in this place that was supposedly haunted…



If you could do anyone in the world’s makeup (you just about can at this point), who would it be?

Being the romantic that I am, I would have loved to work with Audrey Hepburn. Her impeccable style and values are something to be admired and remembered. Also, I would love to work with up and coming designers, photographers, directors, actors, musicians, etc. who are interested in pushing the boundaries of makeup as art.

Tuesday, July 19, 2011

Thrive





I love doing makeup for movie posters...there is always something so special and grand about it...especially if it's a film like this one.

"THRIVE is an unconventional documentary that lifts the veil on what's REALLY
going on in our world by following the money upstream -- uncovering
the global consolidation of power in nearly every aspect of our lives. Weaving
together breakthroughs in science, consciousness and activism, THRIVE offers
real solutions, empowering us with unprecedented and bold strategies
for reclaiming our lives and our future."

Check out more at: www.thrivemovement.com


Photographer: Tom Keller

Monday, June 27, 2011

Britney Spears "I Wanna Go"



Check out the SXF my girls and I did on the paparazzi.
When I read Chris' treatment for this video, I knew it was going to be a blast! His sense of humor is right up my alley.
Again, I could not have done this without my girls: Kate, Laura, and Katie.
Enjoy the awesomeness!

Director: Chris Marrs Piliero

Friday, June 17, 2011

House of Windsor




I had an amazing day shooting for the luxury magazine Veranda. It could not have been a more perfect socal day! As you know, I'm used to working with musicians, actors, models, etc. but meeting these designers was inspiring in a whole new way. Each of them are uniquely talented and my world of ideas opened up in a whole new way...as I am currently in the process of furnishing/decorating my little studio. They reminded me how important it is to keep beauty around you. It doesn't necessarily mean owning a luxury home (however awesome it may be)...for me,it means having a hot cup of jasmine tea out of my favorite tea cup that I bought in a little boutique while wandering the streets of SOHO.

Let the beauty from within you overflow into your environment.

bloopers:

Wednesday, June 15, 2011

Hollywood Bowl-Motley Crue, Poison, NY Dolls


photo by PR Brown


gonna play some geeeetar!

Friday, June 10, 2011

This Is Gonna Hurt- PT 3



In part 3, James, DJ and Nikki really get into their views and experiences on judgements and perceptions of beauty. This also features Amy, who I was fortunate to get to know throughout this process. You will see some of the photographs we created..and the wig/body paint that went into her transformation.

I think it's deeply important that each one of us, at some point, look within ourselves to see our own judgements of people and our definition of real beauty. Is it my definition or did I swallow the lies that were fed to me? If we can move past our judgements and look with fresh eyes on what we see, then beauty will blossom for us all on it's own. But we have to be willing to look at the dark,hidden side of ourselves. This takes brutal honesty and guts...

"Are you with me?"



Thursday, June 9, 2011

EXPOSED!




Working with the legendary Mick Rock was such a crazy fun experience. He is a rock god all on his own. Go buy this book right now...it's amazing. It includes one of my favorite shots of Tommy Lee.
enjoy!

Wednesday, June 8, 2011

Moby feat. Heather Graham






It was pure joy working with Moby and the beautiful Heather Graham. I had so much fun with everyone on this set. A lot of work went into this video, especially with all of the SFX and body paint that went into creating the "demon." I especially love how artful the video turned out. I am proud to be a part of such a beautiful piece.

I could not have done this without my lovely assistants, Kate and Laura.

Directed by Evan Bernard

Tuesday, June 7, 2011

Incubus




Another fantastic day at Smashbox Studios with Incubus for their new record "Adolescents."
Photography by Brantley Gutierrez

Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Badass






Had an awesome day with these guys...
Shooting the cover art was challenging, but the result is hauntingly beautiful.
photog./dir. pr brown

Thursday, May 12, 2011

This Is Gonna Hurt- PT 2



What is real beauty?
I love this question because the answer goes on forever, expanding with one's openness...which then leads to love...which leads to a deeper appreciation of beauty...and so forth. the concept of real beauty is cyclical and all inclusive.
My job is essentially a "beauty maker" and this project tells the truth in our hearts about real beauty...even if it makes you feel uncomfortable.

For me, I am inspired by beauty...it's what keeps me pressing on through life's down times. It is the tiny flicker of light in the darkness. Beauty is powerful.
This is real beauty.

"Save yourself from all the lies of the beautiful people."

Tuesday, May 10, 2011

Temptu and Maria Dora look book





I was flattered when Temptu asked me to do the makeup design for a capsule collection by designer, Maria Dora. The collection is called "Mermaider AW11." According to Maria, "It is 19 pieces, culminating to a capsule collection of 10 looks. Much thought was placed in the development of the capsule collection, from the inspiration research to the mechanics of construction. The name of the collection came as a joke initially, taken from the cartoon Metalocalypse, but the more we said it, the more it became a serious inquiry for us. That single song title, “Murmaider,” opened into an intensive research and experimentation period. The research explored fisherman lore, shipbuilding, mermaid legends, the geography of the North East and David Bowie. Using only three mediums, Peruvian wool, borello leather and silk georgette, I wanted to show how simple silhouettes could still be detailed and impactful. We also extensively used various fisherman knots and herringbone braids in the creation of the knits. The final product is clothing with a languid movement and svelte sophistication. Uniquely special and modern, this is a wardrobe built for a nomadic woman with a divine vision." As you can see, the makeup and hair had to compliment this very specific vibe and vision without leaning too far into fantasy. The makeup that I used for the look book is exclusively Temptu. Check out Maria's collection...it has some of the most exciting pieces that i've seen come from a first collection in a long time.

www.maria-dora.com


Designer: Maria Dora
Photographer: Kevin Rogers
Model: Taylor Nicole/NEXT
Hair: Steven David
Makeup: Amber Griffin for Temptu