“This is not a brand, is a project involving art and experimentation. So, all experimental clothes are made by me: @stratos.design. I’m not looking for a commercial purpose, because it’s only an experimental and academic project.” Introducing Stylist and designer Paula Roca! Photography by Gemma Bartrés. 3D art by Yasmin Garcia.
KALTBLUT: Tell me how you first became interested in fashion; and why you decided to become a fashion designer.
I was always interested in fashion. One of my grandmas was a dressmaker and the other crocheted all day. I guess that seeing that when I was a kid, inspired me to become a creative fashion designer.
KALTBLUT: Tell me a little bit about your journey that led to you releasing your new collection.
This is my final collection from Fashion College. I wanted to have fun, so I developed a project that involved a utopia, aliens and colours all around. All this, helped me overcome the death of a relative, that passed away during this project.
KALTBLUT: How would you describe your style and fashion?
My style is kitch and funny. I like experimenting with colours, forms and fabric manipulations. I believe in timeless and genderless clothes.
KALTBLUT: Are there any fashion icons who inspire your design?
My icons in terms of fashion are Courreges and Cardin. Mugler and Rabanne are also an inspiration.
KALTBLUT: What would you say makes your design stand out against other brands?
My designs are fresh and they draw attention. They seem easy to make but are difficult to execute. They are an artistic expression, more than simple streetwear fashion.
KALTBLUT: Where do you find your inspiration for your work?
I find inspiration in architecture and retrofuturist art.
KALTBLUT: What advice would you give to people who want to experiment more with the clothes they wear?
I would encourage everyone to experiment with clothes because they tell who we are. Fashion has no limits and you can dream with clothes and be a new character every day.
KALTBLUT: What are your favourite pieces from your collection?
My favourite pieces are a dress made from round gathered circles and knitted pieces. All were made by myself and my mum, who helped me a lot throughout the process.
KALTBLUT: How would you describe the local fashion scene/industry in your home town/country?
The fashion industry in Spain is in expansion but I believe that is so difficult for new designers to grow, and that’s why lots of them go to other cities or countries.
KALTBLUT: What does being an independent designer mean to you?
It’s bringing your inner world to reality, but also thinking commercially. It’s super creative and it’s a lot of dedication.
KALTBLUT: If your brand was ice cream, what flavours would it be?
It would be pistachio and blackberry.
KALTBLUT: What was the last music track you listened to?
Coconuts from Kim Petras.
KALTBLUT: Finally, what can we expect to see from you in the near future?
I want to become a knitwear designer in the future.
Stylist and designer by Paula Roca / www.artsthread.com/ profile/paularoca /
Instagram: @stratos.design
Photographer and editor by Gemma Bartrés / Instagram: @unfotogramadevenus
Photographer assistant: Silvia Cortada / Instagram: @sb_photograf
3D creator by Yasmin Garcia / Instagram: @no.gartz
Make up by Clàudia / Instagram: @clauproartist
The model is Lu / Instagram: @22woodengirl
The model is Tokyo / Instagram: @tokyo.gonzalo
The model is Miki López / Instagram: @macarooll
