Corrie Nielsen - Fall February 2011 Show by XXXX Magazine

Corrie Nielsen's fall show of 2011 takes influence from the neat plaits and frizzy curls of historical Elizabethan hair design and introduced to a world of contemporary fashion. This catwalk is an example of how historical hair design can be merged with fashion to create a dramatic artistic interpretation. Most of the models within the runway feature plaited buns that hold the hair back away from the face much like the Elizabethan practical styles, however the look is modernised by allowing the plaits to be slightly scruffier with textured hair pushing out through gaps in the plait. In addition to this is the two dramatic hair styles that feature at the end of the catwalk, these two models have large frizzed styles that are both full in body and messy texture. Although the style is not as curly as conventional Elizabethan hair the shape of the hair itself emphasises the Renaissance influence with a large heart shaped structure that lifts far from the hairline. This style creates the illusion of a taller forehead which was regarded in Elizabethan England as a signifier of wisdom and beauty. Through these hints at historical hair styling the contemporary design of Nielsen's fall collection is immediately transformed into a homage to Renaissance beauty emphasising the changes that can occur through carefully planned hair designs. This use of contemporary styling is excellent inspiration for the Elizabethan project as it demonstrates how shape alone can signify a specific period in time.

Image References: http://www.vogue.co.uk/brand/corrie-nielsen