'The Judgement of Paris' by Eugene Lin's for S/S 2013

20 Sep '12

2 min read

According to Greek mythology, Zeus once held a banquet in celebration of the marriage of Achilles’ parents. However, to avoid disharmony, Eris, the goddess of discord, was not invited. Angered by this snub, Eris arrived at the celebration with a golden apple inscribed with “kalliste” ("for the fairest one") which she threw to the party. Hera, Athena and Aphrodite immediately laid claim to apple and beseeched Zeus to judge which of them was fairest. Reluctant to show favoritism, Zeus declared that the Trojan mortal, Paris, would judge their beauty.

Each goddess attempted to outdo the other by undressing and presenting themselves to Paris naked. Hera further attempted to bribe him, offering to make him king of Europe and Asia. Athena offered him wisdom and skill in war, but it was Aphrodite’s offer of the most beautiful woman as Paris’ bride that swayed his decision and won her the golden apple. That woman was Helen of Sparta, sparking the mythological basis of the Trojan War.

Inspired by the numerous paintings and idealistic moralities of ‘The Judgement of Paris’, Eugene Lin’s Spring/Summer 2013 collection reimagines the tale in the modern 21st century, marking the brand’s debut solo catwalk show at London Fashion Week. The exquisite new collection features Lin’s skilful cutting techniques enhanced by stunning digital prints.

Echoing the striptease of the goddesses as both an erotic and twisted act of manipulation, pieces in the collection are inventively cut to appear distorted. Outerwear is deconstructed into dresses and tops, with a strong emphasis on belted waists and fluid, slim body-con silhouettes. A rich colour palette of earth tones, golden and black as well as and soft pink interpret the three personalities of the goddesses in rich silks, crisp cottons and sensuous jersey.

The tension, seduction and spirit of the collection are captured to dramatic effect in the cutting signature of Eugene Lin.

Singapore-born London based designer Eugene Lin established his eponymous label in 2009, launching his debut womenswear collection over London Fashion Week and he has continued to exhibit at Paris Fashion Week seasonally since 2010.

Eugene Lin

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