Emily Verhaaren

“Kryptonite – an alien mineral that has the property of depriving Superman of his powers.  The way I interpreted this was as a glowing gem that has the power to change reality.

As soon as I saw my colour – Resene Kryptonite – I thought of the light coming through the trees and the warm feeling of the gentle sun on my skin. 

I related this back to an installation in an exhibition I had seen created by Lizzie Leckie.  Her flax installation ‘Nikou world’ was inspired by the woven patterns the light creates where it shines through the native bush.  She was taught the technique of weaving panels from the Kiribati locals. 

I incorporated her passion for honouring the earth and the people with the radiating and glowing fever of the 1920s.  The 1 920s related back to Kryptonite by the exuberant night lights similar to the radiance of the potent green gem.

Kiera Knightley in Atonement looked breath-taking in her backless floor length dress.  I referenced this mood in my design with a dress that skims the body.  Adding godets in the front and back to create the swish and movement of the 1920s.

Kryptonite has captured the night and entranced people, coming alive with a sensual silk green dress.”

Resene Whitecliffe Colour of Fashion clothing - 2019

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