Inspired by Renaissance erotic imagery once considered sinful and now celebrated as beautiful, the Coco de Mer AW17 collection explores darkness through a positive light. The new range is dark, opulent and luxurious, taking its lead from I Modi, a famous erotic book of the Italian Renaissance in which a series of sexual positions were explicitly depicted in engravings. The original edition was destroyed by the Catholic Church, however drawings of the engravings were reproduced and several remaining pieces are featured in a collection of erotic antiquities at the British Museum archives.
Taking inspiration from the drawings, the most erotic parts of the body are concealed in beautiful adornments, and sophisticated pieces are juxtaposed with cheeky and playful elements. The colour palette consists of rich, jewel tones taken from glass windows and opulent jewellery, which sit against dark emeralds and deep, intense navy. The Secretum blurs the line between day and night, creating several versatile pieces which can be worn as underwear or outerwear.
Coco de Mer CEO Lucy Litwack said: “Following the idea of concealing erotica within a beautiful object, and the contrast between erotic sin and erotic beauty, we have drawn inspiration from erotic curiosities such as ornate trinket boxes and gem encrusted phallic jewellery. Shape and colour have been influenced by opulent religious architecture, such as grand cathedral spires, arches and stained glass windows.”
“We focus on the intricate details within an object of curiosity, and use these to think about the finishings and style lines within each collection. The idea of opening something up to reveal a secret inside influences the designs,” she adds. “The customer will feel that they are able to decorate and adorn their body in the most sophisticated way, while Coco de Mer’s signature erotic tone will add drama to the look.”
