Studio Practice: OUGD603: Fossil - Styling the products

In order to convey the contemporary vibe which we have directed the design work towards, contemporary on-trend styling is also a must to create the full illusion of how it would look in a fashion magazine/ real life advertising campaign.

The way the products are styled and the tone of the shoot comes across is my responsibility, therefore careful consideration needs to go into accessories to best convey the concept of hip palaeontologist mixed with streetwear. Bum bags, caps, pulled up socks with trainers and sandals would channel the 'dad chic' which is topical in contemporary styling and fashion editorials. It is worth considering the output of these images also, as the styling can differ between editorial (can be abstract and conceptual) or more commercial (pretty conventional and ready to wear).

Looking into the current trends for menswear, gathering an idea of colour pallet, wearability and model consideration. It is apparent that most fashion models are white males, so a person of colour or a woman would be interesting to break the stereotype further.

It would also be interesting to subtly incorporate and re-appropriate elements of the paelentologists wardrobe which may also be considered to be uncool. The purpose of their dress is for functionality and protection, lots of deep pockets to hold their tools and light sand colours to hide dust and stains.

Jurrasic Park

I found a thread on Reddit where actual palaeontologists were discussing their workwear uniform and what to wear outside of the working day - lots of comments were that they didn't want to look like they were 'trying too hard' or spend money on expensive brands which could potentially break or not fit their personality. Many commenters recommended brands such as Levis, LL Bean, Red Wing Beckmans, Filson and Barbour Bedale. These are all brands to investigate when I start the shopping for the shoot, or even finding alternatives with the same look, feel and purpose.

Actual Palaeontologists at Work

- mimic these poses within the art direction and direction of the shoot

Could incorporate elements of workwear - High Vis jacket coming from pocket, workwear gloves, safety signs. Even large branches or beach-waste for props.

Could incorporate subtle aspects of white gloves, dusters, sand, cargo pants, sun-protecting hats etc - or, find alternatives in modern fashion. Gloves = new nike runner gloves, cargo pants = Levis vintage 501 jeans, sun hat = cap.