Spring Summer '20 Notes & Inspiration

The Spring 2020 collection embarks on a celebration of color and pattern creating a tableau of pastel and jewel toned splendor redolent of the rise and setting of the sun. Inspired by the complex portrait photography of Jackie Nickerson where utility and necessity reveal an imperfect beauty, shapes are layered in a sun-bleached color palette evoking tropical shades of soft lime, pale coral and washed out violets. The colors of earth and sun meet on a delicately embroidered cotton organdy where creeping vines and whimsical flowers dance across Victorian-inspired frocks.

The traditions of saturated hand dyed cloths take center stage, looking to Japan for its masterfully intricate and precise shibori method of tie-dying. Bold diamonds are draped into shapes echoing Kendo tradition incorporating generous volumes with wrapped and pleated detailing. The West African tradition of ideographically emblazoned cloths continues to hold Johnson’s attention. Her love affair with Ankara wax prints is reimagined in a fan printed poplin with exuberant ruffles and tiers. The beading artistry of Benin inspires a group of cotton pieces adorned with an earthy mix of cowrie shells and seeds.