The Bite Magazine - Autumn/Winter 2023 - Issue 34

bitefashion The emerging designer initially started crocheting as a pastime, but it quickly transformed into something extraordinary with the creations characterised by their opulence and sophistication. At a networking event, Diana had the opportunity to share her crochet masterpieces with a seasoned fashion designer. This en- counter marked a turning point in her life, and she embarked on an incredible journey into the fashion world. Luxurious Loops sees fashion as more than clothing; it's a form of self-expression and empowerment. “Our journey began with the collection that started it all, ‘Silenced’. As the founder, I per- sonally experienced the weight of societal judgment and the stifling effects of being silenced simply because of the clothes I chose to wear.” In her homeland, Diana grew up in a conserva- tive environment where she felt the weight of expectations and prejudices from her clothing choices. “I was told I deserved mistreatment because of my attire, a senti- ment that is sadly all too familiar to many,” she revealed. “In my small town, it often felt like my voice was muffled, my opinions ignored, and my experiences twisted to fit the narrative of those around me.” Her collection captures her journey of overcom- ing silence and reclaiming her voice. “It’s a collection created for everyone who has ever felt marginalised, judged, or silenced by society.” Diana’s brand mission is to be the voice of those who have been silenced regardless of their religion, gender, or sexual orienta- tion. “We’re here to break free from the constraints of societal norms and empower individuals to express themselves freely through fashion.” She demonstrated these factors at her capti- vating fashion extravaganza at 64 Rooftop Bar, Clapham, over- looking the High Street in August. The cool, breezy evening was perfect to break from the hot weather with delicious cocktails. The DJ entertained us by spinning the decks, and a masked dancer in white nipple pasties and g-string danced with two large ostrich feather fans to Vivaldi’s Nulla in Mundo Pax Sin- cera from the Shine film soundtrack. The fashion show followed with crocheted pieces featuring a crop top and skirt set in orange and partially off-the-shoulder knitwear in green and blue with cutout blocks at the hem. The next look was a delightful orange satin ribbon crocheted dress accentuating the neck and chest. The designer celebrated the female form with a one-shoulder dress in green and red with a cutout panel showing the torso and a stringed split on the left leg. The tasselled white crop top over the hot pink mini dress brightened the darkened evening. The green and blue hue came back into play with a separate bralette top and skirt with cutout blocks. The light captured the intricate crocheted details demonstrating Diana’s artistic works. A white crop top with a long copper skirt with delicate details walked the rooftop catwalk, followed by the sensational show- stopper hole-knit shawl cardigan with satin blue trousers worn by the male model. The next look was a see-through white cro- cheted dress with striking patterns. We even had a peep at the model’s red underwear. The final look stunned profusely. This beautifully sheer crocheted covering hung over the model’s head like an Arabian treasure, accompanied by an equally revealing skirt. Diana describes her brand as the ultimate luxury without sac- rificing Mother Earth. “Each piece is a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of the team, resulting in one-of-a-kind crea- tions,” she said. “What I want you to feel when you wear Luxu- rious Loops is the epitome of luxury and confidence, knowing your fashion choices align with your values. We believe clothing should empower, and every piece we create is designed with that purpose in mind.” Being a designer means “you can proudly attend a party [wear- ing something] made by you, and it’s so unique, no one else will be wearing what you’re wearing.” She loves the emotional jour- ney designing has evoked in her. “Every time I start creating, I discover another part of myself and my being. It’s almost like learning new things about myself and about the world we live in. It’s like a journey of discovering each time.” Her first design was a blue bralette with pink flowers at the top of the straps. The creative doesn’t sketch her designs; instead, they happen in her head: “Normally during a bath after my meditation.” The time it takes to construct a piece depends on the thickness of the yarn, the materials used and the complexity of stitching. “It can take anything from one week up to three months.” When preparing for a fashion shoot or show, Diana ensures she has her needles, threads and hooks handy. “Everything is carefully washed and ironed. All must be perfect and ready to wear.” Her favourite hue is green because it’s the colour of the heart chakra and gold, which she associates with warmth or the sun, luxury and prosperity. Material-wise, she loves working with re- cycled silk, which she sources from Yarn Yarn, produced from the fabric left over from sari manufacturing in India. “I love how sustainable and high-quality the yarn is. I always source the best quality product with our earth in mind." Diana is inspired by designers Alexander McQueen and Paul Costelloe and fashion brand Somy London, also formed during the lockdown. She admires Ethiopian-born American model Nyakim Gatwick for her boldness and speaking about embrac- ing our bodies, appearance and self-acceptance. She would love to have Angelina Jolie wearing her designs. “She’s such a beauti- ful human inside and out, and I would be honoured to handcraft something for her.” The designer desires to please with her luxurious designs and deliver important messages through her creative work. “Fash- ion is a powerful tool to reclaim a voice that can otherwise not be heard as loud and clear.” She would advise aspiring design- ers to pour their heart into their work, be authentic and always true to themselves, and they will create pieces of art. “Don’t feel ashamed to be bold, and don’t feel restricted. The more authen- tic you are, the more truth you speak with your designs and the more success you will attract.” Jada Brookes attended Diana McCracken’s innovative fashion show at 64 Rooftop Bar in London’s Clapham, showing her creative crocheted designs.