3 minute read
KRISTINA VIIRPA
Kristina Viirpalu
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BY W. A. MULLER
K
V’s couture creations pay a deep homage to historic Estonian embroidery and knitting techniques. Romantic patterns, styles and ornaments are playfully mixed with contemporary sources of inspiration to meet the needs of a modern woman.
The highlights of the brand are the exuberantly intricate hand-knitted dresses created by the masters of this unique craft. These exquisite gowns and detailed couture pieces are inspired by the Haapsalu shawl, a preferred accessory of the Estonian upper class ladies of the 19th century. The shawl was knitted so fine it could be pulled through a wedding ring. This delicate and fragile technique remains a living source of inspiration for our designer.
KV’s hand embroidered bodies are additionally inspired by the motifs and patterns of various Estonian folk costumes.
Most of KV’s elaborate pieces can be worn in multiple ways for different occasions, giving the wearer a chance to create a personal couture style many times over.
Akiko Tokuoka
Photographer | Robert Maxwell IG: @robertmaxwellphoto Hair and Makeup and Kimono dressing | Saori Morris
Akiko, what’s the secret to rocking a Kimono?
When you wear a kimono, especially in the most traditional way, you will feel that there are so many movement and posture limitations, and it’s not easy to walk, sit or even just raise your hands. But I really like the challenge of performing my art within those limitations, because it opens up a lot of creative possibilities. And since the kimono covers most of the body, I also enjoy trying to figure out how to express sensuality with my face and posture instead of showing off my skin. I think it’s really cool!
You are such an incredible dancer- how would you describe what you do?
Thank you so much! I have learned Japanese traditional dance with Sachiyo Ito for 5 years and now I am integrating Japanese style into Vogue and Street. I enjoy performing my own art in a way that feels beautiful and powerful to me, and integrating my culture into a new style through my body and facial expression to express my connection with the audience, so that we can create a performance together.
How are you handling the current shut down of performance spaces?
The venue where I performed on a regular basis called “BATSU! NYC” has been closed since the pandemic happened. It was my favorite place to work, and I was so lucky to have the support of my fellow performers there. Since then, I have been asking myself, “Is my job essential?” “Can I be allowed to continue to perform my art?” “When will people decide that they need art and entertainment in their lives again?” It took quite a long time to find the answer because I really have to look into myself, but I realised that yes, I can do it, because I want to, and I need to. That means facing my trauma and accepting certain things, like taking value in myself instead of looking for it from others, or being grateful for the things I have instead of thinking about the things I lack. Realising that wasn’t easy at all, however, the answer I found is that I am doing this for my own sake and for my “IKIGAI”, which is a Japanese word meaning “reason to live”. I really appreciate everyone for the love and support! I hope that we can continue to empower each other!
akikotokuoka.com IG | nyc.performanceartist Introduction video | youtube.com/watch?v=NwqPnDkOopU
