Inspired by years of drawing at international fashion shows, renowned fashion illustrator Megan Hess showcases an incredible new range of Limited Edition ‘Couture Dresses’ prints in celebration of her contribution to both the art and fashion world.
Style Editor Lizzie Renkert chats to Megan about this beautiful collection.
When did you first realise you had a gift for drawing?
I actually think its the only thing I’ve ever been good at! As a child I would draw little characters of the other kids in my class and they all seemed to love that.
Its just always been the thing I love to do, even when I leave the studio at the end of the day I often find myself doodling or sketching as I watch TV! Its stronger than me.
What inspires you?
People. fashion people, every day people, crazy people! They all inspire me. I love to perch in a coffee shop and watch what people are wearing and how they’re going about their day.
I’m also very inspired by travel and other cultures. Music, art and film. I think theres so much inspiration out there and for me the key is to get out of my own headspace to see it.
Favourite city?
New York.
Your perfect day…
Sleep In. Breakfast and papers with no where that we have to be. Just lazing on our deck with my kids, music playing, cooking something delicious…glass of wine with Husband..just the little things in life…
Most incredible career moment?
My Career changing moment was getting the call from Candace Bushnell to illustrate the cover of Sex and the City. That one call changed my life and I went from Illustrating pizza toppings to working with Chanel, Dior and Tiffany &Co!. I will be forever grateful to that one job that changed everything.
Favourite fashion brands?
I love to mix really well crafted designer pieces with beautiful vintage finds. In terms of Designers: I do love Chanel and anything that I’ve ever bought from the label has lasted the test of time. I also love to find beautiful vintage pieces to work in with the designer items. Vintage gives an outfit soul and I love the thrill of the hunt to find that special piece in and amongst the rubble!
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
As long as my little family is happy and healthy and I’m doing what I love, I couldn’t ask for more. I think as my children (Gwyn 8, Will 4) get older we’ll do more travel with them and I really look forward to that. I can just picture taking my daughter to Paris for the first time and all the wonderful things I want to show and experience with her.
You’re in the process of building your brand. Did you ever think you would reach this level of success?
Never. I’m still in shock every time a luxury brand a calls me to work with them – I think I will always feel that way. If you had told me as a child that I would end up spending my days working on such exciting projects with clients all over the world, I would never have believed you.
Your tips for happiness
Letting go of anything that you can’t control. Surrounding yourself with people that bring out the best in you. Ignore what everyone else does day to day and do what brings you joy. I strongly believe that the more you stay true to doing what you love, the happier you are and the better the person you become, A better Wife, Mother, friend etc..
Describe your personal style (both fashion and your home)
I love a feminine look. You’ll never find me in an anorak! I love lace and prints, jumpsuits and vintage dresses. Layers and layers of pearls. Vintage chunky gold jewellery.. Its all a bit of a mix but overall, I love unique and feminine pieces that have soul and character. My home is similar. We have a few designer pieces that we saved and saved for and then we have vintage mirrors that we found at the markets for $5. All the pieces live happily together! I think style has nothing to do with money, its all about having a curatorial eye for the things you love.
About the prints: In a beautiful colour palette of creamy silks to sheer gold tulle and dramatic lace, the collection depicts the intricate and unique details of each dress. Each giclee (digital print) is printed on Canson Arches Museum Velin, a deluxe heavy weight 315gsm, cream colours, slightly textured, hand-moulded rag. Each print is UV coated, and hand signed by Megan Hess.
RRP $220 per print (size: 297 x 420mm)
