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Exclusive Insights into Edward Cuming’s Groundbreaking Men’s Fashion Creations
Read time 5 minutes
Photography by Jorge Perez Ortiz.
Discover the captivating journey of Edward Cuming, a visionary menswear designer who ventures beyond mere clothing to unravel the intricacies of human behavior.
Edward Cuming’s design philosophy is deeply rooted in his fascination with human behavior and its translation into clothing, texture, and feeling. This passion for exploring the intricacies of the human experience shapes his approach to fashion, driving him to create garments that go beyond mere aesthetics to evoke emotions and sensations.
Originally from Australia, Edward Cuming is a menswear designer now based in the vibrant city of Madrid. His journey into the world of fashion began with a formal education at Central Saint Martin’s MA in Fashion (Menswear), where he honed his craft and developed his unique aesthetic.
Cuming’s designs stand out for their sensitivity and departure from conventional menswear norms. With loose tailoring and exaggerated proportions, his creations challenge the traditional male wardrobe, offering a refreshing alternative that embraces individuality and self-expression.
Photography by Jorge Perez Ortiz.
You can find Edward Cuming’s distinctive menswear at Matches Fashion, with his latest collection set to be stocked at Comme des Garçon’s Trading Museum in Paris from the end of August. This availability ensures that fashion enthusiasts worldwide can access his innovative designs and experience his unique vision firsthand.
Despite not initially planning to launch his eponymous label immediately after graduation, Cuming’s debut collection garnered attention at a showcase by the British Fashion Council. This unexpected success propelled him into the fashion spotlight and marked the beginning of his journey as a designer.
Cuming’s graduate collection, titled “Wash, Rinse, Repeat,” serves as a testament to his ability to find beauty in the mundane. Inspired by repetitive holidays at all-inclusive resorts, the collection captures the essence of relaxation, comfort, and familiarity through its meticulously crafted garments.
Photography by Jorge Perez Ortiz.
As a one-man team, Cuming embraces collaboration as a means of enriching his creative process. By sharing his studio space with a traditional bridal label from Seville and collaborating with the Spanish artistic collective Pattern Chineso, he gains valuable insights and perspectives that inform his design choices.
For his latest collection, Cuming expanded his collaborative efforts by incorporating outsider perspectives to complement his own observations. This willingness to embrace diverse influences and experiment with new techniques underscores his commitment to continuous growth and innovation.
From the exaggerated proportions to the intricate fabrics and unexpected patterns, Cuming’s designs challenge conventional notions of masculinity. By creating garments that feel comfortable yet defy stereotypical gender norms, he aims to provide men with a wardrobe that celebrates sensitivity and individuality.
“Designing isn’t just about clothes; it’s about capturing human experience in tangible form.” – Edward Cuming
The narrative of openness and connectivity that permeates Cuming’s work is further exemplified in his latest photoshoot. Despite the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, he embraces virtual interconnectivity through platforms like Zoom, allowing models to style his pieces within the confines of their homes.
Through these intimate and authentic portrayals, Cuming captures the essence of his designs and celebrates the diversity of human experience. By bridging the virtual and tactile worlds, he reaffirms his belief in the power of clothing to foster connection and expression.
Looking ahead, Edward Cuming remains dedicated to his vision of a more inclusive and expressive fashion industry. With each collection, he continues to push the boundaries of menswear, offering a glimpse into a future where sensitivity, diversity, and self-expression reign supreme.
Photography by Jorge Perez Ortiz.
Edward Cuming’s dedication to his craft extends beyond the realm of fashion, as he actively engages with broader cultural and societal narratives. Through his work, he seeks to challenge stereotypes, spark conversations, and inspire positive change. By addressing pressing issues such as gender identity, body image, and self-expression, he uses fashion as a medium for social commentary and activism.
As a designer, Cuming is not content to simply follow trends or adhere to industry standards. Instead, he constantly pushes himself to innovate and evolve, seeking out new inspirations and pushing the boundaries of his creativity. Whether experimenting with unconventional materials or exploring avant-garde silhouettes, he remains committed to pushing the envelope and redefining the possibilities of menswear.
Collaboration lies at the heart of Cuming’s creative process, as he actively seeks out partnerships with like-minded artists and designers. By bringing together diverse perspectives and skill sets, he is able to push the boundaries of his own creativity and explore new avenues of expression. Whether collaborating with traditional bridal labels or contemporary artistic collectives, Cuming remains open to the possibilities of collective creation and exchange.
Photography by Jorge Perez Ortiz.
Beyond the confines of the fashion world, Cuming’s influence extends into the realms of art, culture, and society at large. His work serves as a reflection of the times, capturing the zeitgeist and offering insights into the complexities of contemporary masculinity. Through his designs, he addresses pressing issues such as gender identity, body image, and self-expression, sparking important conversations and challenging societal norms.
Cuming’s impact extends far beyond the confines of the fashion world, as he actively engages with his audience through various channels. From social media platforms to live events and exhibitions, he seeks to foster a sense of community and dialogue around his work. By inviting feedback, criticism, and collaboration, he encourages his audience to actively participate in the creative process, blurring the lines between creator and consumer.
Looking to the future, Cuming remains committed to his vision of a more inclusive and expressive fashion industry. Through his work, he hopes to inspire others to embrace their authenticity, challenge societal norms, and celebrate the diversity of human experience. With each collection, he continues to push the boundaries of menswear, offering a glimpse into a more empathetic, sensitive, and liberated future.
Text by
Adrian Hendrix
Photography by
Jorge Perez
Fashion by
Patricia Villirillo
Posted
June 4, 2022
Text by
Adrian Hendrix
Photography by
Jorge Perez
Fashion by
Patricia Villirillo
August 9, 2018
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Melodic Mastermind: Aime Simone’s Dynamic Influence Reshaping the Music Scene
Read time 2 minutes
Posted
July 1, 2023
Courtesy of Aime Simone.
In the dynamic world of music, fresh talents constantly emerge, captivating listeners with their unique voices and compelling stories. One such artist who has been making waves in recent years is Aime Simone
With a subtle pop sound and poignant lyrics, Aime Simone has captured the attention of music lovers worldwide, establishing himself as an emerging voice in the industry. Born with a passion for music, Aime Simone’s journey began at a young age. Growing up in a musically inclined family, he was exposed to a diverse range of genres and artists, which inspired his own musical aspirations. Drawing influences from soul, folk, and pop, Aime Simone developed a distinct sound that would later define his artistry.
Aime Simone made his mark with his debut single, “Say Yes, Say No.” in Berlin, releasing it independently in July 2020 – including the viral hit single “Shining Light” which would race to over 30M streams. Released to critical acclaim, the song showcased his powerful vocals and lyrical depth. It’s introspective nature and emotional resonance struck a chord with listeners, earning him recognition as a promising new talent. The track’s success paved the way for Aime Simone to further explore his creative potential and solidify his presence in the music scene.
As Aime Simone’s career progressed, his musical style evolved, showcasing his versatility as an artist. He began experimenting with different sounds and production techniques, fusing elements of electronic music with his soulful foundation. This fusion created a captivating blend that set him apart from his contemporaries, allowing him to carve out a unique niche within the industry. One of the defining aspects of Aime Simone’s music is his ability to convey raw emotions and thought-provoking themes through his lyrics. Whether addressing personal experiences, societal issues, or matters of the heart, his songs resonate with authenticity and vulnerability. Aime Simone’s introspective approach to songwriting has garnered praise for his ability to connect with listeners on a deep and meaningful level.
Aime Simone’s talent extends beyond the recording studio, as he delivers captivating performances that leave a lasting impact on audiences. His live shows are known for their energy, intimacy, and connection with fans. Aime Simone’s ability to create an immersive experience, combined with his magnetic stage presence, solidifies his reputation as a captivating performer. With his star on the rise, Aime Simone shows no signs of slowing down. As he continues to refine his sound and expand his musical horizons, fans eagerly anticipate what lies ahead. Aime Simone’s dedication to his craft, coupled with his unwavering authenticity, positions him as an artist to watch in the years to come.
Aime Simone’s emergence as a compelling voice in the music industry is a testament to his talent, passion, and dedication. With his soulful sound, introspective lyrics, and magnetic stage presence, he has captivated audiences and garnered acclaim from music enthusiasts worldwide. As Aime Simone’s musical journey unfolds, we can expect him to leave an indelible mark on the industry, solidifying his status as an influential and beloved artist.
Kelly: What is something about yourself that most people would be surprised to learn?
Aime: People are usually surprised when they find out that I am French. I have lost a lot of my accent and I almost exclusively speak English at home, so if you don’t know me that might surprise you.
Or maybe I don’t drink alcohol, smoke, or take drugs. That would probably surprise a lot of people.
Kelly: Can you tell us about a project you are currently working on and
what do you hope to achieve with it?
Aime: Right now I am working on the live show. It’s a continual work in progress, but right now I am making adjustments based on what I learn from the festivals that I’m doing. Every show is an opportunity to improve. I want to have a show that feels amazing to perform and to experience. I want the energy to be effortless, powerful, and cathartic. I want the show to carry you, lift you, and release something in you. So I’m working on that.
Kelly: What would be your dream project or collaboration?
Aime: I would love to make an album in a special place, like a villa in a warm climate. I would like to have the experience of completely immersing in the creative work for a while, isolated from everything else. Gathering the right instruments, tools, and people to be around and bring the right energy. That would be a luxury.
Kelly: How do you navigate the intersection of your public persona and your private life, and what boundaries do you set?
Aime: I think I’m starting to reach the point where I do have to set some kind of boundary. Before I was making the effort to address everything on a personal level, respond to all the messages, etc. I knew at some point that would become difficult. I do feel guilty but it’s just not possible for it to stay the same. So I think I have become more picky about what I put my energy into. For example, some fans give me a lot, a lot of love and I know they truly connect to me and my music. For them, I will always be there. But more and more some people just want something from me, and they don’t make the effort to know me. They just see that I have some kind of spotlight on me sometimes so they try to get something from me. I have to cut myself off from that kind of energy, it is depressing and empty.
” I just have to believe my intuition. It’s very scary in the industry where everything is built to make you believe that you can’t do it your way, that you have to do things the “right” way or you will fail, be punished, or be abandoned.”
Courtesy of Aime Simone.
Kelly: If you could have any historical figure over for dinner, who would it be and what would you serve?
Aime: I would bring back Salvador Dalí and I would serve lobster.
Kelly: If you could only have one app on your phone, what would it be?
Aime: Probably WhatsApp. Or Instagram.
Kelly: How do you balance the pressure to be perfect with the need to take
risks and try new things?
Aime: That’s a real challenge. But I don’t think about it too much. I know that the answer is always in the action. You can’t try too hard to do anything. Just do the work, don’t be lazy. Do it well, take it as far as you can. And let go if it’s time. It’s something you learn over and over again. That’s just the work of an artist I think.
Kelly: What do you believe is the biggest challenge facing your industry today, and how do you think it can be addressed?
Aime: The lack of attention span. The sheer amount of content and high stimulation of everyday life today is not conducive to people connecting to music and artists. While the advantage of today might be the huge amount of exposure, what is lacking is the ability for people to take the time to understand the depth of an artist. I think people are more likely to feel superficially stimulated by a song and enjoy it for a very short amount of time before skipping to the next thing, rather than discovering an artist and diving into their universe. I think it is still something that humans need. So there is this lack of connection, deep connection to art. I think reaching the hearts of people is more difficult today. Everyone is too busy, overstimulated, or apathetic. I think it’s a greater question of where we are headed as a culture. We are still physical beings. We have to make our relationship with technology symbiotic, not destructive. I think there is still a balance to find that will be more healthy.
Kelly: How do you maintain authenticity and stay true to yourself in an industry that can often be superficial and image-driven?
Aime: Always bring it back to the music. That is the center of it all. The songs. The melodies, the lyrics. As long as those are true then I am not worried about losing myself, that keeps me grounded in authenticity.
Kelly: Can you describe a moment when you had to take a leap of faith and
pursue a new path or direction in your career?
Aime: I’ve had to quit working with some people. That is always scary because when you work with someone for a long time you are used to that and you feel comfortable in the familiarity. But sometimes you have to change things. So for me, those kinds of moments feel like a leap of faith, and I just have to believe my intuition. It’s very scary in the industry where everything is built to make you believe that you can’t do it your way, that you have to do things the “right” way or you will fail, be punished, or be abandoned.
Kelly: How do you stay motivated and inspired to continue to create and innovate in your work, despite challenges and obstacles?
Aime: It’s all there is to do in this life for me. I don’t think I could ever give up, what would I do?
The challenges and the obstacles are part of the experience. They make me strong. I think I chose this path because I wanted to grow. Sometimes I feel like giving up. But I think that feeling is towards very specific things- giving up on certain aspects of the industry, for example. I could imagine someday choosing a more underground path. I come from that, so it would feel less challenging I think. The industry is very uncomfortable, but at the same time, I like the competition with myself in this very harsh context.
Kelly: If you could go back in time and give yourself one piece of advice at the beginning of your career, what would it be?
Aime: It’s strange because anything I can think of that I would do differently today is exactly what led me to be here now. So it’s hard to answer.
Catch Aime Simone on tour
May 12th – The Great Escape – Brighton (UK)
June 4th – We Love Green – Paris (FR)
November 6th – La Cigale – Paris (FR)
November 27th – Circolo Magnolia – Milano (IT)
Oh Glory is out now on Because Music.
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July 1, 2023
August 9, 2018