The Story Behind the Drapes: Why They Matter
Discover the story behind GaMi Lew’s signature drapes. A unique blend of Japanese inspiration and modern couture. From the vibrant streets of Harajuku to the artistry of handcrafted designs, this feature explores how the concept of the drape was born and why it stands as a symbol of individuality and transformation.
Why Drapes Matter
Drapes aren’t just clothing, they’re stories, pieces of art that embody individuality, culture, and transformation. For me, drapes are deeply personal. They represent my journey as a designer, my love for fashion, and my respect for the cultural inspiration that shaped them.
In 2012, my life changed when I first visited Japan. Walking through the vibrant streets of Harajuku, I was captivated by the fashion—a bold, expressive world I had never encountered before. Japanese fashion wasn’t just clothing; it was an art form, a way of life. The colors, layers, and attention to detail opened my eyes to a new way of thinking about style. I didn’t know what a kimono was until I came to Japan, but once I discovered it, I fell in love.
2012: First visit to Japan
The kimono, with its centuries of history and symbolism, inspired me like nothing else. I admired its craftsmanship, its elegance, and the way each piece told a unique story. Yet, I knew my designs needed to be my own; a reflection of my personal style and voice. As a former celebrity stylist in Los Angeles, I loved couture, edgy pieces, ruffles, and puffy sleeves. So, I set out to create something that nodded to the kimono but also stood apart. A design that blended my love for bold, modern fashion with the cultural artistry I admired.
That’s how the concept of the Drape was born. I didn’t want to borrow the name "kimono" for my designs because it holds deep cultural significance in Japanese history. I wanted to create something inspired by it but with its own identity, name, and legacy. The Drape became my way of celebrating individuality, much like the kimono, but in a way that honors its roots without overshadowing them.
2019: Draped in a traditional style kimono
The Drape I Designed for Myself
To create my personal drape, I gathered fabric from every drape I had designed for others. Each piece of fabric held a memory, a story, and a purpose. By piecing them together, I handcrafted something uniquely mine. A wearable testament to my journey, both as a designer and as a woman inspired by Japanese artistry.
This drape is a reflection of why I love what I do. It’s bold yet elegant, modern yet timeless, inspired by tradition yet uniquely my own. It’s proof that fashion can tell a story, connect people, and give them a way to express themselves like never before.
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Discover the drapes inspired by this journey Click here