Never did an embrace from an inanimate object look so cool than with Kofta’s F/W 2013 collection titled 'Hug.' One way this is achieved is by taking prosthetics, delicately sheathing them in black leather, and strategically placing them on various accessories.
With other pieces, the show of affection is even more nuanced. Sometimes it’s a bag made of over-handled leather that’s contoured to complement the way it would be grasped. Other times the item has four points that somewhat resemble arms, and these points (almost like a baby) wrap itself around the wearer.
Although Kofta is known for his obsession with surrealism and the exploration of beauty, this was actually the first collection where Konstantin Kofta (the artistic genius behind the label) let emotion lead rather than the physical form. Nonetheless, his execution is pretty effective. He manages to take a human desire most people selectively display and make an argument for wearing it on their arm.
Implications - People are lonely. Recreate an emotional connection!
Extended Body Part Accessories
The Kofta FW13 Leather Goods Taps into the Need for Human Touch
Trend Themes
1. Extended Body Part Accessories - The trend in using inanimate objects to recreate emotional connection provides an opportunity for innovative accessory makers to use the human body parts as design inspirations.
2. Surrealism-inspired Fashion Accessories - There is a growing trend in surrealism-inspired fashion accessories, which provides an opportunity for designers to explore new and unconventional designs that go beyond traditional fashion boundaries.
3. Designing for Human Connection - Creating accessories that simulate human connection provides an opportunity for designers to tap into an unmet human need.
Industry Implications
1. Fashion Accessories Industry - The fashion accessories industry can innovate and capitalize on the trend of designing surrealism-inspired accessories with a focus on human connection and body parts.
2. Prosthetic Industry - The prosthetic industry can adapt to the trend of creating prosthetics covered in black leather that provide a more meaningful and emotional connection to the wearer.
3. Luxury Leather Goods Industry - The luxury leather goods industry can capitalize on this trend by creating high-end bags and accessories that simulate human embraces.