Sil e nt R ainfore st S/S16
Zuhal Kuvan-Mills GREEN EMBASSY
Sil e nt R ainfore st S/S16 A glorious celebration of earth’s mystical rainforests and the treasures they hold, Silent Rainforest is a diverse collection of hand-printed organic Haute Couture. Featuring tops and skirts, simple dresses and showstopping gowns, Silent Rainforest celebrates a range of cuts, from classic to modern, with contemporary original art applied as prints. The use of berries, flowers, turmeric and other natural wonders, as opposed to fabric dyes, is a delightful showcasing of the true colours nature has to offer. As always, designer and artist Zuhal Kuvan-Mills has applied her original art to wearable canvases that are both luxurious and earth-friendly. Fabrics such as GOTS certified organic cotton and vegan silk have been utilized to create stunning pieces that drape each frame beautifully. Swarovski crystals add dazzling sparkle, emulating the dew and drops that dwell in the rainforest. Silent Rainforest presents a fusion of elegant aesthetics and ethical values. The collection stuns with romantic, feminine pieces in a rich, intriguing palette of crimson, purple, cream and yellow. Laden with thoughtful reflections of the artist’s concern for the preservation and protection of one of the world’s most sacred places, this collection is an artistic expression of rare, unique beauty. An effortless blend of Haute Couture and environmental consciousness, Green Embassy’s remarkable Silent Rainforest collection is a work of timeless wearable art that is sure to be treasured by many a generation.
‘Al l am and a’ M a x i Dre s s This showstopper combines a bold, vibrant visual statement with the classic look of a sleeveless maxi, and the result is beyond compelling. Hand crafted in pure silk chiffon, the simple, clean cut perfectly contrasts with explosions of colour. Applied by hand using Turmeric and Beetroot, strong pops of bright, warm yellow and sheer washes of crimson comprise the unique print. A scoop neck and tank-style straps lend simplicity, while pleats from the waist add a splash of drama. Allamanda is lined with cotton for luxurious comfort to match its incredible beauty.
‘Kap ok’ Crop top and l ong s kir t Wear this beautiful boatneck crop top and straight-cut maxi skirt together or mix and match with pants, blazers, and more- this set is as versatile as it is gorgeous. Made with pure silk and lined with soft organic cotton, this modern outfit features a subtle yet stunning print applied with lotus flower petals and pods. A back slit on the skirt adds a seductive twist to a simple yet elegant statement.
‘P lumeri a’ Te a Dre s s A fluttery dream in vegan silk, this sleeveless dress features tank-style straps, a scoop neck, A-line cut and a flared skirt that hits below the knee. With handapplied prints by way of purple carrots and turmeric, this versatile number can easily be styled a number of ways- from heels and a shawl for formal occasions, to sandals and a straw hat for the beach. Lined with organic cotton.
‘J asminium’ Gow n A true conversation piece in vegan silk, this floorlength mermaid cut gown is unforgettable. Sparkling Swarovski crystals are sprinkled on a modern, sculpted collar printed with purple carrots and turmeric. The gems are used to emulate the dew and drops that cover the Rainforest. The Jasminium Gown is sleeveless, featuring a halter neckline. The ultimate fusion of classic snow white and colourful artistic prints make this gown as intriguing as it is striking.
‘Ar und ina’ Dre s s Walk on air with this floaty, romantic dress, crafted with 20 meters of pure silk organza and printed by hand with forest berries and beetroot. Vibrant purples contrast beautifully with cream accents (a bow at the waist and trim around the bottom of the skirt.) A ruched bodice decorated with Swarovski crystals complements the full, flowing skirt portion of this stunning sleeveless dress. A classic semi-sweetheart neckline and ballerina-length skirt bring a romantic innocence to a dress that could go anywhere from the runway to a gala.
‘Amb arel l a’ Dre s s Creamy silk chiffon with botanical embroidery (upcycled from a wedding dress) lends a vintage vibe to this delicately feminine tealength dress. A straightacross neckline and spaghetti straps offer a beautiful simplicity, while the panel of handprinted flowers at the waist brings a unique, artful edge. Purple carrots provide vibrant pops of colour at the waist and along the bottom of the skirt. Glass beads add to the ethereal nature of this fairy-like dress. The skirt is slightly longer than its organic cotton lining, allowing the sheer, luxurious fabric to show off its naked beauty.
‘Hoya Bel l a’ Dre s s This long, classic dress features a gorgeous structured sweetheart neckline, wide straps, and pleats at the waist. Splashes of warm yellow and violet prints applied by hand using purple carrots and turmeric turn a classic cut into a modern masterpiece. Crafted and lined with organic cotton, this dress is simple yet stunning. Eye-catching glass beads and a long, graceful train at the back of the dress make this piece a true standout.
‘V il l e a’ Dre s s With its stark, simple cut and subtle yet stunning palette, the Villea dress presents a gorgeous merging of sophistication and edgy elegance. This enchanting dress is crafted with pure silk and lined with organic cotton. A genuine showstopper, this piece features a full-length pleated skirt hand printed with bougainvillea flowers and leaves, and a fitted bodice with a drop waist printed with beetroot. The Villea dress is a visually compelling, romantic piece armed with a touch of rebellion. Soft, muted peaches, faded reds, and buttery creams unite in soft swirls for a gentle, modern tie-dyed effect. Several strands of neutral glass beads form a sculptural design that nearly acts as a collar and sleeves at the chest, back and shoulders. This unique detail drapes artfully, high drama to an otherwise softspoken piece
‘C anna’ Top and L ong Skir t Charming and sweet, this gorgeous full, long organic cotton skirt pairs perfectly with its accompanying tankstyle silk chiffon top. With a simple, straightacross neckline and slender straps, the basic shape of the top contrasts with the eye-catching print, hand-applied using purple carrots. Crystal beading on the back of the top and a train flowing at the back of the skirt add to the radiance of this ensemble. The crowning glory is the silk turmericprinted belt, which ties the whole look together. Bold purple and bright yellow create a tropical celebration of colour, flirting with the immaculate stark white of the skirt. Worn together as a whole or separated into pieces for an endless array of looks, the Canna top and skirt are versatile pieces that exude feminine beauty.
‘R af fe si a’ Dre s s Crystal beads dazzle on the spaghetti straps and back of this enchanting silk Chiffon drop-waist dress. The skirt begins mid-thigh, flaring and ending below the knee, which adds a sweet girly touch to the sophisticated, form-fitting bodice. A sweetheart neckline delights while subtle pops of colour from blackberries dance across this unusual dress. Lined with cotton.
‘C andol l e ana’ Dre s s This elegant statement dress marries soft femininity with modern drama. The scoopneck sleeveless top shimmers with silver upcycled sequins. The asymmetrical silk chiffon skirt, printed with purple carrots and turmeric, overlaps to create a petal-like effect. Turmeric also provides the punchy yellow trim around the top. Underneath the ‘petals’ is a secret-a short organic cotton skirt. Sexy, soft and unique, this empirewaist dress is sure to stun wherever it goes.
‘Prote a’ Dre s s Simplistic yet utterly feminine, this slinky tea-length slip dress gets back to basics with classic spaghetti straps and a straight-across neckline. This pretty little mid-length number is crafted in pure silk chiffon with cotton lining. Forest berries have been applied by hand, resulting in a soft wash of purple, and lending the dress a gentle watercolour effect. Perfect for summer days, festivals, and even to sleep in, this is a timeless, luxuriously comfortable piece you will treasure for many years to come.
‘J ac ar and a’ Gow n Be the belle of the ball in this ethereal full-length gown. Pure silk from top to bottom beautifully displays a work of handprinted art applied with purple carrots, in a whimsical floral design. The full skirt is topped with a turmeric-printed silk belt, which pops against the rich violet that decorates the rest of the gown. The Jacaranda Gown is lined with organic cotton, with a simple sleeveless boatneck top that allows the vibrant colours and ravishing design to take center stage. Crystal beadwork down the back adds just the right amount of sparkle to this remarkably unique gown.
‘C onting a’ Dre s s Strings of crystals beadwork crisscross around the neck and back of this stunning side-slit sheath dress. Hitting mid-calf, this sleeveless dress is hand crafted in luxurious pure silk and lined with organic cotton. Hand printed with purple carrots to create an arresting floral pattern, this is yet another piece that invites a classic cut to mingle with original wearable art.
‘Mor pho’ Dre s s This standout dress sends hearts a-flutter with its unique white double skirt (high-low flowing twill organic cotton panels open to reveal a short organic cotton skirt underneath). The pretty bow at the waist beckons the eye upwards to the silk chiffon boatneck top, hand printed with purple carrots. A long train brings a bit of drama, and crystal beadwork adds a burst of glittering glamour to the back of this showstopper.
‘B arrigona’ Dre s s This short silk chiffon number is an exquisite feminine statement in a rich palette of butterscotch swirls and purple ripples from bougainvillea flowers and leaves. Hand-sculpted silk chiffon flowers made from leftover fabric (as per Green Embassy’s strict zero-waste policy) delight at the halter neck and waist, adding to the graceful goddess-like beauty of this sublime dress. A subtle yet powerful visual statement lined with organic cotton, the Barrigona Dress will turn heads on the runway, at dinner parties-anywhere the beauty who wears it may go. Dazzling glass beads on the back and a fanciful asymmetrical hemline add the perfect finishing touches to this draping, gauzy slice of perfection.
‘Ac aci a’ H al ter Top & Je ans Make a splash in a pure silk pure silk halter top and white organic cotton jeans with a twist-both pieces are playfully painted with bursts of bright yellow turmeric and purple carrots. These bold prints add an artisan flare to a simple, classic outfit. A gathered neckline and silk straps lend a feminine sweetness, while the skinny cut of the jeans lengthen and slim the legs. The perfect outfit for casual Sunday brunch, a long walk or a coffee date!
‘Heve a’ Top and L ong Skir t A vision of simplicity in a subtle neutral palette of cream, gold and brown, this boatneck crop top and flared long skirt is understated and incredibly elegant. The stark cream top pairs beautifully with the whimsical skirt, printed with Mangosteen fruit. Layers of opulent silk organza add a feminine fullness to the striking skirt, peeking out from the triangular hemline. Made with luxurious vegan silk and lined with organic cotton, each piece can be styled many different ways, together and separately. Whether dressed up or laid back, this outfit is undeniably elegant.
‘Tril l ium’ Dre s s A straight across neckline and beautiful V-shaped straps embellished with intricate glass beadwork bring a dash of glittering glamour to this short, fluttery silk chiffon dress. The rest of this striking piece makes a statement of simplistic elegance in snow-white decorated with purple carrot prints and lined with organic cotton. Playful and timeless at the same time, this creation celebrates the simplicity and sparkle that dwells in every woman.
‘Gynur a’ Dre s s Slip on this long, sexy, figure-hugging dress, and you’re sure to feel as regal as you look. The Monkshood dress flares at the knee with subtle pleating on the skirt,. A classic cut collides with enchanting floral prints, hand-applied with blueberries and ivy leaves. A straightacross neckline and spaghetti straps add a simple sweetness while the unexpected open back brings a touch of rebellion and plenty of sensuality. Sumptuous vegan silk is the canvas for this wearable work of art, resulting in a dress that is certainly the epitome of elegance.
‘Sinning i a’ Dre s s Fun, flirty and feminine, this double layer silk chiffon dress possesses a sweet forest fairy charm. Delicate botanical embroidery at the chest and a highly pigmented print from purple carrots creates a visual feast. Spaghetti straps, a deep V-neck and a slightly ruffled hem lend a soft sweetness to this above-the-knee number. Lined with organic cotton, this piece is a vision in violet and white. The (name) dress is the perfect casual summer essential, but with heels and a dressy cardigan, it instantly becomes the ideal dress for dancing the night away.
‘M ar anta’ Dre s s This short, snug organic cotton shift dress is perfect on its own or as an essential layering piece. A simple, straight-across neckline and slim straps are spiced up with a thin choker that wraps around the neck, uniquely attaching to one of the straps at the back. Subtly printed with purple carrots and turmeric, this classic little dress looks amazing with platform sandals or heels and a blazer. It’s a basic, highly versatile piece that celebrates the female form, hugging and accentuating each glorious curve.
C al l i andr a Gow n Glamour, romance and feminine radiance unite, resulting in a breathtaking mermaid-cut dress, lovingly crafted in silk chiffon. Forest Berries have been applied by hand to create the dreamy pinks that grace this gown. Silk and cotton scraps have been sprinkled with Swarovski crystals and hand sculpted into frothy flowers where the bodice meets the skirt. Layers of fine silk organza add fullness to the skirt, while an overlapping sweetheart neckline and ruching on the figureflattering bodice are darling details. Lined with organic cotton, this gown is nothing short of exquisite.
‘Verbe na’ Top & L ong Skir t Brights and whites mingle over a classic skirt and long sleeved collared shirt to create a stunning duet. Crafted in vegan silk, the jacket-style top features a wraparound belt, which is adjustable. This offers wearability for a variety of body types and a number of looks. Features include botanical embroidery, colourful prints from forest berries and turmeric, and glass beading on the collar and cuff links. Long, angled cuffs give a fantasy feel to this striking set. The accompanying long silk skirt is a basic, stark white piece with a relaxed fit and an alluring front slit cut just below the knee. This is a modern outfit that is simultaneously casual and chic.
‘Sol anum’ Gow n This is a spectacular, refined gown in silk chiffon with an organic cotton lining. Timeless touches such as three-quarter length sleeves and a simple boatneck offer a classic backdrop for a stunning long train and bold purple carrot print. Tasteful crystal beadwork adorns the neckline, leading to a magnificent open back. All of these remarkable features form a divine statement piece in a figure-flattering column cut.
‘W isteri a’ Dre s s Turn heads in this silk chiffon gown lined with organic cotton. Printed in soft, neutral shades with hibiscus and bougainvillea leaves, this alluring dress embodies class, confidence and simplicity. Showcasing minimalism at its finest, this gown features a seductive sweetheart neckline, wide straps and an utterly classic column cut. Swarovski crystal buttons stun on the back of this gorgeous gown, breathing a touch of high glamour into a strikingly simple piece.
‘Fel ici as’ Gow n With a clean, crisp column cut, organic cotton lining and a simple sweetheart neckline, this silk chiffon dress certainly possesses some very classic traits. But in true Green Embassy tradition, little details give this piece a modern, artistic edge as well. These features include an asymmetrical below-the-knee hemline that gives way to a flowing, flared white skirt, and romantic crystal beading on the back. A grand purple carrot print is the crowning glory of a stunning dress that effortlessly balances timeless tradition with modern art.
‘Steph anotis’ Dre s s A beautifully understated vision, this long silk chiffon dress is printed with purple carrots and lined with organic cotton. A scoop neck, fitted bodice and flared skirt lend a clean simplicity to this regal number. Swarovski crystals on the back add an opulent sparkle, and statement pleats on the front of the skirt bring a splash of intrigue. Triangle panels for extra volume.
‘V iol a’ Gow n This long, sleeveless column dress features a sexy side slit and a gorgeous high neck with a crystal-embellished ruffled collar. Lined with organic cotton, pure silk chiffon is softly printed with forest berries and hibiscus petals. Highly sophisticated and undeniably seductive, this piece radiates simplicity and grace.
‘Hel iconi a’ Dre s s Short and spunky yet sweet and feminie, this pure silk dress has been hand-printed with Mangosteen tropical fruit and turmeric, resulting in a dazzling palette of cream, peach and yellow. Lined with organic cotton, this thigh-high number enchants with ladylike details such as the overlapping V-neck, fitted bodice and darling bow at the waist.
‘S aintp aul i a’ Gow n With intense violet and deep yellow pigments from purple carrots and turmeric, this modern, sculptural gown is full of unexpected details. Artisanal textile flowers decorate the neck of this sleeveless gown, adorned with Swarovski crystals. The bodice is fitted, setting the stage for a spectacular full layered skirt. The first layer is an asymmetrical printed vision in silk, while the under layers are stark white, crafted from pure silk organza for extra fullness. An eye-catching train at the back adds even more drama to this statement piece. Straps tie around the neck, and the low-cut back is dotted with crystal buttons. This unusual, alluring gown is a true expression of feminine beauty and modern art.
‘Li ana’ Dre s s This short shift silk and organic cotton dress is perfect for business and pleasure. With a scalloped V-neck, a button-down front and a romantic floral print from mangosteen fruits, it’s a basic piece that can go from the office to a party in a heartbeat. A front slit adds a splash of sass, without taking away from the sophisticated vibe of this unique dress.
‘Aechme a’ Dre s s The simple cut of this short, snug zipperback dress allows the bold, bright purple and yellow to shine. Purple carrots and turmeric provide the vibrant colours on a vegan silk canvas lined with organic cotton. Sweet details like wide straps and a subtle bow on the straight-across neck round out the classic-meets-modern appeal of this piece.
‘Ke nang a’ Dre s s This basic silk mini dress features a simple scoop neck, zip-back an A-line cut. Purple carrots and yellow turmeric add a splash of pretty colour, standing out against the elegant simplicity of this versatile organic cottonlined dress. Styling options are endless with this piece, as it stands beautifully on its own with limited accessories or dressed up with heels and jewellery.
‘P apil l on’ Gow n Layers of ruffled silk organza comprise a fluttering hi-low skirt, while a fitted vegan silk bodice with a straight-across neckline dazzles. Printed all over with purple carrots, the print is randomly placed around the petals of the skirt, with a stronger, consistent pattern on the bodice. In the middle of the top, a triangular panel boasts a softer pigment, adding to the dreamy romance of this ethereal gown. A short organic cotton under-skirt allows the “wings” of the overskirt to open gracefully, creating a true butterfly effect. Airy, elegant and almost otherworldly in its beauty, this is the gown you’ve been dreaming of.
‘V inc a’ Top Chic and unique, this pure silk chiffon, organic cottonlined piece is not your average tank top. With a sharp sweetheart neckline, hand-applied forest berry prints and an overlapping front, it’s a modern take on a beloved standard. This sweet and sexy top hugs the curves right to the hips, at which point a skirt-like panel, made from fabric cutoffs, has been added. This elevates the look to another level, turning an otherwise basic shape into something totally new and modern. Seductive and figure-hugging meets graceful and flowing, resulting in a top that exudes elegance and class.
‘Chysis’ Dre s s Top & Skir t This sleeveless silk ruffle-neck top and long, flowing skirt exude pure magic and plenty of haute drama. The structured, silk front-pleated top is creamy with a beautiful sheen and an origamiinspired high ruffled neck, lending a Victorian-meetsmodern vibe. Pink crystal buttons dazzle all over the ruffled collar playing up the romantic glam of the fairy-like skirt. The skirt is layered with asymmetrical free-flowing silk organza printed with forest berries. Underneath is a layer of soft organic cotton for volume. Both pieces are equally dreamy and look amazing together and paired with other pieces.
‘S as s afr as’ Dre s s This classic, midi sheath dress features a 3D folded neck, adding a 50’s touch to the modern, vibrant print. A triangular far extends over the shoulders, lending a geometric touch. Made with pure silk, this delightful dress explodes with rich purple and yellow colour, courtesy of purple carrots and turmeric. An open, heart shaped back and a sexy slit bring a splash of bold sensuality to this piece. A dash of retro-chic seasons a dress that is certainly classic, but also utterly unique in its artistry.
‘Zephyr’ Top & Trous ers A statement of relaxed luxury, this two piece outfit consists of wide leg trousers and a simple yet chic sleeveless top. In a charming twist, the front of these trousers feature slits from the knee to the floor, creating the optical illusion of a short skirt when in motion. With front pleating and a relaxed fit, these pure white trousers are perfectly complemented by the accompanying feminine scoop5neck top. A soft palette of peach and yellow on white silk has been applied by hand using lotus petals and turmeric, and a pretty bow at the side of the chest adds irresistible charm to a lovely simple top. The result is an outfit that works beautifully together but can blend effortlessly with many pieces in any wardrobe.
‘Eop s al tri a’ Dre s s Light, airy and sweetly simple, this is a vegan silk mid-length sheath dress with an organic cotton lining. Features include spaghetti straps, a romantic sweetheart neckline, and strong prints from blackberries, with splashes of yellow turmeric. A slit at the back of the skirt is a sultry addition to a sophisticated piece.
‘C olumb a M ayeri’ Gow n This long, mermaidcut silk gown is as enchanting as a fairy tale. The strapless, fitted bodice features a sweetheart neckline at the front and a plunging U-shaped back, held together with a pretty, adjustable ribbon. Softly printed in petal pinks from a beetroot, this gown drips with true romance. Hundreds of two-tone twisting silk strips are fastened with sparkling pink crystals. They dangle from the ruffled hemline, creating a flower-like effect. You will radiate and captivate wherever you go in this uniquely beautiful gown.
‘Junoni a’ Dre s s Three origami-inspired folds at the chest are adorned with a lovely little bow, adding a modern artistic flare to this silk strapless number. Sleek and sophisticated, this tealength dress features a slightly flared skirt, delivering a classically romantic look. The trio of folds at the chest extends around the back, ending in a gentle low-cut V. Lined with organic cotton and printed by hand with purple carrots, this is a dainty and darling piece.
‘Gyg us Al b a’ T wopiec e Dre s s Proactive and highly original, this long, sleeveless vegan silk dress is a true work of wearable art. A plunging V5neck seduces the sleeveless bodice, printed with purple carrots and turmeric. Lined with organic cotton, this dress is extremely versatile, featuring a long, slim skirt with a back slit. But wait There’s more. A short tie5around skirt comes with this striking piece, and can be added for an intriguing, tiered look with extra volume at the back. Worn with the second skirt, this dress appears to bloom like a flower. Worn without, it is sleek and classic. Either way, it’s a stunning, classy statement.
‘Anthor nis’ Gow n Sculptural ruffles from silk cut-offs create the origami-style halter neck on this statement trumpet-cut gown. Strong prints from hand-applied purple carrots and turmeric shower this glorious silk gown with a magical splash of artistic colour. A semi-sweetheart neckline complements the classic, formfitting bodice at the front, while crystal adornments sparkle at the neckpiece and act as buttons down the back of the dress. The flared floor length skirt takes the highly romantic feel of this piece to another level. Visually arresting in every way, this gown creates a striking presence, commanding every eye in the room.
‘V indul a’ Dre s s This tea-length strapless silk dress is simply ravishing. Tropical mangosteen fruits have been applied by hand, comprising a soft palette of peach, yellow, and cream. Artistic folding on the bodice sets the stage for the asymmetrical silk skirt. A charming silk organza layer peeks out from underneath the overskirt, offering volume and a burst of solid, buttery colour with a slightly ruffled hem. The final touch is a wide, decorative belt. A charming piece, this dress emanates beauty and elegance.
‘P as sifl or a’ B al l/ We dd ing Gow n Walk down the aisle or stun at the ball in this long, showstopping gown. Whether you’re a bride looking for the perfect unique gown, or wish to make a statement at a formal gala, this strapless piece will collect a gasp from each person you pass. Crafted in 30 meters pure silk organza and lined with organic cotton, this gorgeous gown features a long train that flows radiantly. Uniquely artistic origami folds decorate the bodice. Astounding textile sculptures make magic in ruffled purple and white, printed with forest berries. Adorned with effervescent Swarovski crystals, these draping, hand-sculpted details wrap around the chest and back, emulating rainforest flowers. This is a classic, enchanting cream gown with a modern fairy-tale twist.
‘Gr and if l or a’ Gow n The elongating fitted bodice of this vegan silk trumpet-cut gown is covered in strong violet prints from purple carrots. Adding to this explosion of colour, random bursts of warm yellow turmeric peek through like slices of sunlight. Three-stranded straps are decorated with Swarovski crystals, inspired by the intricate lines and dew-spangled glow of a spider web after a rainfall. The two-tiered asymmetric silk organza skirt begins with a ruffled hem at the drop waist, floating gracefully to the floor with stunning fullness. A hidden side-slit appears as if my magic, giving this visually compelling gown a sweet little secret.
‘Strel itz i a’ Dre s s This very short vegan silk bodycon piece is dressed up from the waist to the hemline with structured origami-style folds, making a statement out of a simple piece. A low sweetheart neckline adds to the sensual appeal, while an elasticized smocked back offers comfort and charm. Bright yellow turmeric has been applied by hand to create the bold, vivid colour on this alluring little number.
‘Ac ai’ Dre s s This spectacular piece shines with a classic trumpet cut, simple straps and a sweetheart neckline. The fitted top features strong blueberry prints, which begin to fade at the end of the bodice. Purple seamlessly blends into yellow turmeric prints, creating an updated tie-dyed effect. Faded purple and warm yellow dance across the long, bell-shaped silk organza skirt. Gathered fabric adds a sweet detail to the top of the skirt, lending even more romance to this stunning dress. Timeless, delicate and elegant, this piece showcases a breathtaking mixture of art and couture.
Chr ys al is B al l/Brid al Gow n This dazzling gown radiates classic charm with a modern twist. Adorned with stunning embroidery from an upcycled vintage evening gown, the flattering, fitted bodice is encrusted with shining Swarovski crystals at the front and back. The skirt is lined with three layers of pure silk and one layer of organic cotton, to create a fabulous, frothy volume. A gorgeous long train enchants at the back. Origami-style folds on the bodice offer the perfect embellishment to this striking piece, which can be worn as a formal evening dress or a bridal gown. The crowning glory is the original art applied all over the skirt using buttery yellow turmeric and vibrant purple carrots. The Chrysalis gown is yet another piece from the Silent Rainforest collection that blends classic minimalism with artistic elegance.
Ar tist Stateme nt One of my greatest wishes as an eco fashion designer and textile artist is to protect, preserve and celebrate the earth. I do this in myriad ways - from using eco-friendly materials to implementing fair-trade practices. Every aspect of my art has always been rooted in my passion and connection to the earth, and Green Embassy is no exception. Wearable art is yet another channel through which I endeavour to raise awareness and compassion. The fashion industry is one of the world’s largest polluters, and I aim to create beautiful clothing while at the same time creating change in the industry. In a nutshell, my goal is to spread the word on a larger scale, offering fashion designers and consumers alike a new perspective on what they wear. My desire to create garments that are mesmerizing, beautiful and ethical is second only to my compulsion to promote a green message everywhere I go, in all aspects of my work. With this in mind, I am pleased to introduce my 2016 Spring/Summer collection, entitled Silent Rainforest. In this new collection, I again aspire to protect the earth’s most precious resources. In a previous collection, I eco-printed organic cotton, silk, merino and alpaca fibre with eucalyptus leaves to (literally) preserve the Australian bush in textiles. In Silent Rainforest, I’ve turned to a fascinating range of real-life flowers, plants and natural materials to help convey the fragility of the world’s ecosystems. Inspired by a trip to Bali, where I was saddened to find much of the rainforest being destroyed in the name of tourism, I created Silent Rainforest. The collection, much like its namesake, is strong yet fragile, powerful yet delicate. This time, my abstract eco-prints are made from hibiscus and bougainvillea flowers, ferns, orchids, purple carrots, forest berries, pomegranates, beetroot, red cabbage and turmeric. To emulate the transient nature of the drops and dew that decorate the rainforest, I’ve used delightful bursts of Swarovski crystals, beads and glass. As a result, the garments are a feast for the senses with an arresting palette in varying intensities of gold, cream, crimson and violet. Romantic florals dance on luxurious fabrics, making this collection soft and subtle, yet visually stunning. Silent Rainforest evokes the lightness of the rainforest canopy with its “sea of ferns, mosses, trees, butterflies, colourful birds and flowers”. The title Silent Rainforest is a tribute to Silent Spring, the 1962 classic by Rachel Carson – a book which is credited for launching the modern environmental movement. Rainforests are the world’s most diverse habitat. While they cover only a small percentage of the planet’s landmass, they shelter half of all the animal and plant species. Unfortunately this rich heritage is fast disappearing at the hands of commercialization.
My newest collection again accents the romantic feminine form through flowing fabrics and elegant lines. As always, my creations use internationally GOTS-certified organic cotton fabrics. In this range, though, I’ve added another amazing hand-made fabric to my repertoire – Peace (vegan) silk that’s been ethically sourced and then hand woven by local artisans from a rainforest region in the Indian state of Orissa. This stunning fabric does not involve the killing of worms during production. Instead, empty cocoons are used so that the moths can complete their life cycle. Silent Rainforest is a tribute to the beautiful, suffering rainforests that we take for granted. The collection embodies my desire to create stunning wearable art while conveying the message that our earth and its beautiful treasures need protecting. There is something for everyone within the collection. From glamorous gowns for galas and events to slip dresses for the beach or running errands, Silent Rainforest is a gorgeous fusion of nature and couture. Those who adorn their bodies in pieces from Silent Rainforest make a statement, both visually and environmentally. When you wrap yourself in my designs, friends, family and colleagues will want to know who you’re wearing - and you can proudly reply that you’re in Green Embassy- a line that offers the cream of the crop in ethical, green fashion. In the interest of giving back, which is very important to me, ten percent of all sales from the Silent Rainforest collection will be channeled to the UK-based charity Cool Earth to support indigenous rainforest communities around the world I hope you love Silent Rainforest as much as I do. Zuhal Kuvan-Mills
ZUHAL KUVAN-MILLS GREEN EMBASSY 227 Cathedral Ave, Brigadoon WA 6069, Australia ++61 (0) 407 479520 ++61 (08) 9296 2154 greenembassy.com.au
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