Tuttle’s talent is plane to see
An airplane trip with her father was the source of Katrina Tuttle’s inspiration for her Fall 2010 collection, “In Plane View”. A runway hit at Toronto’s LG Fashion Week Beauty by L’Oréal Paris in March, Tuttle’s chic and powerful collection of feminine frocks, tailored coats and staple-worthy separates was inspired by the picturesque view of forests, rock formations and bodies of water from her airplane ride in the sky.
“It was neat to look down on nature instead of seeing in it front of you,” says the 21-year-old designer.
The bird’s eye view from Tuttle’s window-side seat influenced every aspect of this collection from the fabrics, textures and patterns to the colour palette and overall construction of the garments.
Tuttle’s signature pleated details were peppered throughout this collection, while reoccurring cowl necklines, one-shoulder designs, geometric cuts and unique embellishments made these otherwise simple and structured silhouettes truly special pieces
“My intention was to have pieces in my line that were statement pieces that you can put on and not have to accessorize and look great in it,” explains Tuttle.
Tuttle’s use of natural fibers like silks, velvet wools, cashmere and organza made for a collection full of easy to wear, breathable pieces with lots of texture and visual interest. While Tuttle kept the majority of her palette neutral with black, gold and gray; splashes of blue, green and purple made this crowd-pleasing collection pop.
From sketching the designs and sewing the clothing, to styling the models and photographing the fashion shoots herself, Tuttle is truly involved in every step of the process when it comes to her business. With no formal training in fashion or design, Tuttle’s creations are truly a product of her inborn talent and imagination.
Tuttle sparked an interest in fashion at a very young age, creating one-of-a-kind ensembles out of household materials for her very lucky Barbie dolls. By the age of six, Tuttle was making life-size designs and showcasing her creations in fashion shows she produced with her cousins.
“I think the Popsicle sticks were the most unconventional thing I used. However, there was the appearance of the glue gun now and then! When I was six we used the Popsicle sticks for boning in a top made for one of our fashion shows,” reveals Tuttle.
Tuttle has undoubtedly come a long way since the days of homemade runways and 10″ models. Chic boutiques are selling her clothing all over her hometown of Halifax, ON, and after two hit seasons at one of the world’s most celebrated fashion weeks (LG Fashion Week Beauty by L’Oréal Paris in Toronto) Tuttle’s undeniable talent has created a cross country fan base and worldwide recognition.
What’s next for Katrina?
Katrina’s official website is launching an online store where her designs will be available to fans all over Canada. When asked about her aspirations with regards to her fashion line, Katrina was proud yet humble about her hopes for the future.
“I want to continue to design great collections, expand the brand through Canada and eventually beyond,” she explains. “I want to be able to have a line known for great fit and quality.”
Check out Katrina’s Fall 2010 collection, “In Plane View” at www.KatrinaTuttle.com, and keep checking for the upcoming online store.
Photos provided by: Katrina Tuttle
Written by: Amy Jessica Weeks
amy@sugarcainent.com
