Print Monthly

That is why it does not surprise me that one of fashion designer Richard Quinn’s designs were featured at this year’s event. The designer uses Epson printers to produce his vintage inspired clothing with modern twists. He even boasts Lady Gaga as one of his previous clients.

It was internationally recognised human rights lawyer Amal Clooney that supported the young designer at the event by wearing a bespoke two piece look designed and produced by Quinn. The outfit featured a strapless metallic floral top, paired with sleek black cigarette trousers, and a detachable rose train that added a touch of drama.

The theme of this year’s gala was ‘Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination’, which was designed ‘to create a dialogue between fashion and the masterworks of religious art in the museum’s holdings’.

Quinn says: “Amal wanted to include roses and lilies in the print because of their religious iconographies. The rose is an icon of veneration in the pre-Christian era and was used in ancient Rome to symbolise devotion to the goddess Venus. It was important to Amal that the print subtly referenced religion, so we used heavy brush marks to mimic the look of a stain glass window on a beautifully detailed print which was applied to the foil using an Epson digital printer.

“Her decision to wear trousers was her way of depicting female empowerment and modern religion by referencing the stringent oppression that women faced. Amal is recognised for her work in international law and human rights, so it was important to us that her look made a statement and reinforced the amazing work that she does.

“Myself and my team loved working with her to create such a significant outfit which spoke a million words on her intelligence and active role she plays in making a change in the world.”

Epson and others in the print industry took to Twitter to express their excitement at the outfit choice, and Vogue.com style editor, Edward Barsamian, called the look “truly divine”. As the clothes worn at the Met Gala are widely photographed and reviewed, it can only mean good things going forward for Quinn.