In the fashion world, designers draw inspiration from many different things. For
example, cities are filled with artistic expression from murals, to architecture, to graffiti to
museums. While there are endless sources of inspiration in cities where most fashion designers
are based and thrive, there are just as many within nature. Nature has the most extraordinary
colors, patterns, shapes, luminescence and movements that can be found in the animals or even
in the non-living elements. Let’s take a look at how fashion can be inspired by the four main
elements in nature; air, fire, earth, and water.
When we think of air, we think of movement, the wind, the clouds, light energy, a
whistling noise, leaves falling off the trees, and celestial shapes. A fashion designer that really
taps into these ideas is Iris Van Herpen. She includes biological shapes in almost all of her pieces
and creates movement and flow throughout her looks. The symmetrical patterns and three
dimensional nature of these looks makes them unique, as well as the pale and neutral color
schemes. They have flexibility and almost give a sensation when worn by the models as if they
are floating down the runway. The air element symbolizes adventure, curiosity and a sense of
ever-changing, which is what these looks symbolize as well.
Fire is associated with the sun, the heat, the stars, mythical creatures and really anything
that shines. It is a symbol of life, warmth, light and passion. The element of fire embodies warm
tones such as reds, oranges and yellows. The fire element is bold and not scared to draw
attention. Valentino’s Fall 2023 collection had excellent pieces that incorporated deep reds mixed
with bright reds, as well as black shimmering pieces. A particular black trench coat embroidered
with black gems looked as if it could have been taken from the molten rock from a volcano. The
attention to detail was striking and amazing. Another very popular look from this collection was
the red satin backless ball gown that could not be missed coming down the runway. It contained
the brightest red pigment and was made of a material sure to catch the light of the sun. Long
draping pieces also fit this element as they add a dramatic and elevating effect. Accessorizing
with oversized jewelry and gems perfects these looks and really brings the fire element out.
Water is the sea, it is fluid, it is free-spirited. Emblems from the water such as shells, sea
glass, bioluminescent marine creatures, coral reefs and sea stars would all serve as good
inspiration for fashion pieces. Fashion influenced by the water element would be cool-toned
pieces with white, blue and purple hues, as well as beaded, pearled and embroidered pieces.
Going back in time to a collection by Elie Saab in Spring 2003, he created elegant and majestic
gowns that related well to the element of water. The sequins seen in many of the pieces reflect
the luminescence of the sea and the see-through chiffon fabrics remind of the transparent but
rippled nature of water. The teals and aqua blues again give feelings of water and the bright pops
of color match well to the vibrancy of marine life.
Lastly, the element of earth is a comforting and peaceful element. It embodies the
greenery, the forests, the trees, and the soil from which these plants all grow. Colors in fashion
that would be considered earthy tones are neutrals, browns, greens and tans. This style is often
referred to as a bohemian or minimalist style and was very popular in the 70s and so on. A
collection from Alberta Ferretti Ready-to-wear spring 2023 fits perfectly to represent the earth
element. The leafy motif seen on the dress on the left takes direct inspiration from patterns found
in nature and the way the leaves wrap around the dress like a vine gives depth to the look. The
piece in the middle includes a pantsuit with a seemingly snake skinned print draped with a
chiffon fabric overtop. The overall collection showcases fabrics intended to look more natural
and handmade, adding to the earthy and non materialistic feeling.
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