Olmec

Alexander McQueen – SS12                                                      Mary Katrantzou – SS12

The Olmec civilisation was the first major Mexican civilisation. The Olmec civilisation is particularly known for its artwork, most of which is based on religious artefacts and iconography. A lot of the artwork was also based upon animals; for example a lot of pottery was engraved with the detailed patterns of fish scales, or elaborate patterns designed to represent bird feathers. It is arguable that Olmec artwork has influenced designers, especially with the underwater trend which, thanks to Versace and McQueen, became huge for Spring 2012. The trend saw many designers using screen-printing technology as well as elaborate lace patterns to recreate the intricate prints of fish scales and coral reefs to spectacular effect.