Rankin Shoots Coco de Mer’s SS19 Mythological Exploration of Erotica

Derived from references to seduction and sensuality by influential artists of the Italian Renaissance Era, this season’s Coco de Mer collection reinterprets a mythological exploration of erotica. 

Concept and embroidery design focuses specifically on a study into the sexually metaphorical use of fruit and flora for expressions of sensuality, temptation and seduction. The concept interprets a study into Botticelli’s infamous ‘Primavera’, a hypnotic allegory based on the lush growth of Spring. 

Inspiration was drawn from the central figure, Venus, strongly connotated with love and sexual desire, and the surrounding depiction of flora, supposedly a metaphor for sexual blossoming and seduction. 

Drawing influence from SS19 trends for ‘Nostalgic Florals,’ fabrics are defined by a rich and refined handle worked to achieve a rustic and romantic quality. Authentic flora-themed Renaissance tapestry and whimsical painterly motifs characterise the overall direction. A rich and decadent take on a Spring/Summer colour palette, delicate floral tones are placed in contrast with smokey hues with deep undertones and heady red accents. 

The Renaissance collection includes: 

Flora Flora encapsulates the irresistible beauty of blossoming botanical elements within Botticelli's Primavera, in a manner both delicate and intriguing. An alluringly enchanting pistachio lace adorned with intricate deep blue metallic threadwork is subtly enhanced with touches of luxurious silk to create a captivating effect. 

Aglaea Both Mesmerising and enchanting, Aglaea intricately contours the body through curve-enhancing shapes, worked into a beautifully delicate black eyelash lace and teased with glimpses of skin to allure and entice. 

Venus Alluring and impactful as the mythical goddess of Love, Venus encapsulates a provocative sensuality to tempt and entice. A luxuriously decadent deep red lace with intricate metallic threadwork subtly catches the light with an almost gossamer-like quality, designed to enthrall and intrigue.

Enchantress Hypnotic and seductive, Enchantress takes inspiration from the strong metaphorical undertones for sexual desire and seduction evident within the works of several Renaissance artists. Body sculpting mesh with silk detailing is worked to create figure-enhancing shapes amplified by intricate lacing details.

 

Thalia Thalia encapsulates the richness and refined qualities found in ornate renaissance tapestry. A whimsical, painterly embroidery on tulle has been designed to achieve a mesmerising romantic quality which has been worked into alluring shapes that aim to frame and enhance.

 

Retail prices range from £75 for an eye mask to £495 for a robe. 

SS19 will be available to purchase from global wholesale outlets as well as the Coco de Mer Boutique and www.coco-de-mer.com from December 2018. 

Coco de Mer CEO Lucy Litwack says: “This season’s collection inspires and delights. Our iconic Coco de Mer silhouettes have been updated to add even more depth and creativity to the styles. The Renaissance concept allowed us the opportunity to delve into the decadent world of Italian art during the 15th Century. Rankin’s interpretation of the collection left me speechless. The images are beautiful works of art themselves. I hope our customers love the collection as much as I do.” 

Coco de Mer has won Independent Retailer of the Year at the UK Lingerie Awards for the last four years. 

Photographer: Rankin

Executive Producer: Nicola Kenney 

Producer: Christine Wright 

Make Up Artist: Marco Antonio 

Hair Stylist: Jonathan Connelly 

Hair Assistant: C/o Jonathan Connelly Dir

Manicurist: Kelly Shenton 

Stylist: Anna Hughes-chamberlain 

Talent: Elle Dowling @ Models 1

Talent: Ishioma @ Storm Models

Talent: Ellen G @ Img

Stills Assistant: Jack Chamberlain 

Stills Assistant: Micaela Mclucas 

Stills Assistant: Ben Duah 

Stills Assistant: Derrick Kakembo

Stills Assistant: Conor Clarke

Stills Assistant: Ed Aked 

Digi: Neil Bennett  

Digi: Alex Gale 

Art Department: Kenzie Yeo Donaldson 

Art Department: Amelia Tavenner 

Art Department: Archie Harding 

Art Department: Sadie Haque 

Art Department: Ellie Koslowsky