An interview with creative director Jeanie Annan-Lewin and editor-in-chief Katie Grand
What was the thought process behind transposing the beauty of such experimental pieces into pictures? What was your vision?
Jeanie Annan-Lewin: We have a great relationship with Zhong Lin, the photographer chosen for the project, and when Katie mentioned how much she loved the collection it seemed like the best fit. Zhong Lin’s imagery is so powerful and experimental, and it was such a joy to take these fabulous pieces and interpret them in her own special way.
Katie Grand: We have worked with Zhong Lin on the previous two issues of Perfect, and I particularly like how she takes a fashion idea and makes it super conceptual. When I saw Dingyun’s pieces for Moncler, Zhong Lin was my first thought to document the clothing – it was a natural fit.
What was your first impression when you saw Dingyun Zhang’s pieces for the Moncler collection?
JAL: I thought it was such a strong, fun and exciting collaboration – the pieces looked like sea creatures who were off to a rave or something.
KG: I was super excited, I just loved everything about the collaboration.
How do you think Zhang’s work pushes Moncler’s design language forward?
JAL: I felt like we got a real glimpse into Zhang’s world – there’s a strong element of escapism but you can still wear all the pieces, which feels like a reflection of the world we're currently living in.
KG: The pieces are a fantasy but then completely wearable all at the same time. I also love the colors.
Does the avant-garde quality of the pieces reflect a particular stance on fashion in this issue of Perfect magazine?
JAL: I think it’s a perfect marriage. As a magazine we’re really trying to explore, encourage and highlight creative freedom from people and places you don’t often hear from, so these pieces and images definitely fit the bill.
KG: We have a very global point of view, and both the pieces and the photographs by Zhong Lin seem very ‘global’ to me.
At which point do you think that Moncler evolved their design language to move towards a more disruptive and artistic approach to fashion?
JAL: I really like the way Moncler offers a safe space for designers to really express themselves and make strong stand-alone pieces.
KG: Moncler have consistently worked with interesting talents on their Genius line. It’s always exciting to see who they choose to work with.
Do you think that functionality and experimental design can coexist in the future of fashion?
JAL: I think we live in a time of lots of change and uncertainty, and it’s essential for clothes to have true expression and function – those things go hand in hand.
KG: YES. Absolutely!
