Dario 1-Large
Elegant Curiosities
Look / Atocha

Atocha

Atocha

With a deep appreciation for history, our designer has woven elements of the past into this remarkable look. Drawing inspiration from the shipwreck of the Spanish Galleon Nuestra Señora de Atocha, which sank off the coast of Florida Keys in 1622, a pendant made from a recovered silver bar from the wreckage has been incorporated into the back of this piece.

A certificate, provided by Elegant Curiosities, will accompany the ensemble, offering detailed information and authenticity (certificate shipwreck treasures M. Fisher Bar number: 85A-S641 Manifest Nr: 4402).

To create this captivating look, our designer skillfully combined various pieces of black lace, while an adjustable closure featuring bronze alloy chains adds versatility. Filigree ornaments, embellished with 24k gold and sterling silver hand-plated details, grace the ensemble.

The garnets on this piece are set in sterling silver prong settings, accentuated by garnet cabochons, numerous freshwater pearls, sterling silver beads, and antique garnet beads dating back to circa 1880.

The headdress, crafted with synthetic black hair, is adorned with filigree ornaments featuring 24k hand-gilded and sterling silver-plated details, as well as garnets set in sterling silver and freshwater pearls. A matching wig, styled by the designer, is available to complement this piece. Additionally, matching earrings are included in the ensemble.

The pasties feature a backing already equipped with a layer of skin glue. After wearing this piece, a new layer of skin glue will need to be applied (provided with the piece) for subsequent uses.

The skirt is made of a flowy polyester fabric with silky look.

Included with his look: *Top *Skirt *Gloves *Headdress *Wig *Earrings *Pasties

About the collection

These creations cater to anyone wishing to embody their feminine side or make a statement with luxurious, distinct, and exclusive attire. Each garment doubles as a piece of jewelry in its own right. Elements in her designs incorporate historical artifacts, 24k hand-gilded and silver-plated details, precious gemstones, freshwater pearls, sterling silver, and 14k gold. All these elements converge to ensure that you’re not simply donning an item of clothing, but adorning a jewel, each bearing its unique narrative and source of inspiration.

Designer: Laila van den Dageraad / Elegant Curiosities
Model: @Licka_Lolly
Photograpy: Laurens van Riel
Intern Coupeuse (skirts): Julia Eliene Vos
Music Production Showcase: Robin Post & HermanusArtisticus

Why is my collection black?

Most of the time, roughly 90%, I choose to don black attire because of its timeless elegance and sophisticated style. However, black is more than just a fashion statement, it has a profound significance that can be understood better through a historical lens.

During the era of the Romans and the Middle Ages, black was often symbolized as a color of power and respect. As time moved into the 13th century, the perception of the color black underwent a transformation, becoming associated with malignity and mortality. This notion was often reinforced by creatures of the dark, such as cats and crows, which were seen as omens of evil.

Creating the color black was a highly costly process, typically achieved by extracting pigments from bark, roots, and fruits. However, these sources often yielded shades that leaned more towards blue, gray, or brown. The most effective method to procure black dye was through the use of Oak apples. Despite their potency in producing the desired hue, their minuscule size meant that a vast quantity was required to generate a relatively small volume of dye.

During the 14th century, the popularity of black clothing began to rise. In those times, especially in Italy, societal norms prohibited the wearing of specific colors unless you belonged to the upper echelons of society. Affluent individuals without such status desired to distinguish themselves as well, and they found a loophole in the absence of any restrictions on the costly color black. This allowed them to subtly flaunt their wealth. As a consequence, the demand for black fabric soared, and this in turn refined the expertise of the dye-makers.

The captivating allure of black attire was not lost on society. Its deep, refined hue captivated the aristocracy of Europe, who quickly adopted it as a part of their attire. By the close of the 14th century, even foreign monarchs and noblemen began to show an inclination towards black clothing. Consequently, black established itself as the preferred color among noble youth for many ensuing centuries.

My love for history and luxury made me choose this color for my collection.