'The Royal Buffalo Hunt' Look Book

My design process starts the same with each collection:

• First, I research what is happening on the runways in Paris, Milan, London, and New York.
• Then, I look at what is happening on the street and at retail.
• Next, I do a little history research.  I look at vintage textiles, embroideries, and key details for whatever the collection calls for. Many times this includes doing actual historical research into events and cultures of a specific period.
• Finally, before I ever set down at the drawing board, I compile my 'Look Book'.  My 'Look Book' is a collection of everything that inspires me.  It usually includes magazine tears, runway shots, color poms, fabrications, key silhouettes, construction details, ephemera, etc. - just whatever excites me.  Only then, can I begin the actual design process.

My 'Look Books' have varied widely in the past.  Some are slam dunk, 'get 'er done' projects and some are very elaborate. I remember one particular season where I replaced every model's head with Annie Oakley's and placed a skeet rifle in their hands.  When Audrey saw it she said I had way too much time on my hands! Well, whether simple or elaborate, each 'Look Book' is very personal; it is what guides and inspires me during the design phase.  In the following posts, I am going to pull out some of my favorite pages from this season's Look Book.  It is called, The Royal Buffalo Hunt, by Double D Ranch. Enjoy!

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