The new winter collection by acclaimed Israeli designer Alon Livne was inspired by a historical story that took place in 1590 in Scotland, where, according to stories, a group of women, led by Agnes Sampson (a Scottish healer and purported witch), was accused of witchcraft and betrayal by the King of Scotland, James VI and betrayal of the monarchy.
Alon Livne 2019 © Adi Segal
These women who were suspected of stirring up storms in the sea and causing the ship's fleet to drown, were accused of doing so by performing a worshiping ceremony for the devil that included dance and sex during which they were marked by him in intimate areas of their bodies.
Alon Livne 2019 © Adi Segal
These signs, which were discovered on the women's bodies, were the ultimate proof of their guilt, and the group was executed. According to the story, Agnes's spirit is still wandering in the palace gardens.
Alon Livne 2019 © Adi Segal
The collection, "Aconitum", is named for the flower known by its form of seductive petals in deep crimson. It is a particularly poisonous flower, also known as the Devil's Cloak, by which competitors concocted poisons from in the Middle Ages.
Alon Livne 2019 © Adi Segal
The collection consists of 30 ensembles, including jackets, pants, shirts, coats, bodices and lavish evening dresses, in black, white, silver and red. Each garment in the collection is crafted from a variety of materials that were assembled together and sewn with meticulous sewing techniques.
Alon Livne 2019 © Adi Segal
The items in the collection are custom-made only.
Alon Livne studio, 24 Achva St, Tel Aviv
Alon Livne 2019 © Adi Segal