Turner Prize-winning artist and UAL Chancellor Grayson Perry has debuted his new 2019 Chancellor robes specially designed for him by London College of Fashion MA Costume Design for Performance student, Rachele Terrinoni.
Comprising of a custom-made petticoat, an 8-metred hand smock dress, and a Swarovski crystal encrusted coat, featuring 10 layers of silk dupion, overlaid by 10 metres of linen lining.
The robes showcase dazzling oversized sleeves, each weighted by 5 layers of tulle and each emblazoned with Swarovski crystals, finished with its own hand-stitched ruff, spanning 8 metres of brightly coloured linen
Hailed by Grayson as the piece de resistance – the robes are complemented by a regal collar ruffle - comprising three arched layers and totalling 24 metres of interwoven linen and tulle.
The final look is completed with specially commissioned boldly patterned tights – adding to the grandeur and high drama of the robes.
Thrilled with the final design – Grayson described himself in the robes as a "rogue transgender Renaissance princeling".
Commenting that Rachele had “done a fabulous job” in creating the one-of-a-kind couture robes, Grayson predicts that Rachele has a “very bright future” ahead of her.
Rachele said:
“I really love Grayson Perry’s work and the wide variety of techniques he uses, especially his pottery.
I was inspired to design the robes on the basis that Grayson is a multi-skilled artist who embraces different creative executions - from costume, to fashion, design and performance, - all the disciplines that UAL covers.
So this robe is tailored for him - a multitalented artist that is a symbol of UAL!”
Showcasing a kaleidoscope of over 10 hues - incorporating linen, silk dupion, tulle, silk georgette, crin and Swarovski crystals – the robes mark a unique UAL tradition, offering an inspiring alternative to the traditional black robes conventionally worn by other Chancellors at graduation.
You can watch the making of Grayson's 2019 robes on YouTube and the ceremonies will be streamed live on mygraduationfilm and live-tweeted under the hashtag #UALGrads