INSPIRATION

BEHIND THE LENS

Music is Fashion

Brooke Evans shares the story behind her 2022 collection, Music is Fashion

HAIR: BROOKE EVANS

MAKE-UP: NATALIE WOOD & KERRY ELLIS

STYLING: ANNA LATHAM

PHOTOGRAPHY: CHRIS BULEZUIK

What do you love about this collection?

This is my favourite collection to date. It meant so much to me because it was my first collection as a solo artist. I put my own money in and fully backed it. Usually, you’ve looked at these collections so much that you’re tired of them six months down the line but to this day I look at it and think, “Yeah, I back myself on this one.”

What was the inspiration for the hair?

Music. I have quite an eclectic taste; anything from Ibiza anthems to old-school rock and Northern Soul. I really wanted that to be the feel behind it, with each image showcasing exactly what musical vibe we were going for.

How did you go about setting up the shoot?

I had a great team of people I love to work with. I like using social media to source my models. A couple of them were locals I had used before and I outsourced a few university students. I was looking for amazing people who didn’t necessarily do this as a job but had a striking look. I used a local makeup artist who did my wedding makeup; she does brilliant creative work, and I really like her style. I really did beg, borrow, and steal to make it happen.

Did anything go wrong or surprise you on the day?

I waited to see if I got through the first round of judging with my four strongest images, but I knew the second four weren’t as strong. I ended up reshooting half of my collection – Errol Douglas offered me his salon to do the shoot, so he was in there with me helping it all come to life. Errol has backed me several times throughout my career, and for him to offer his salon was amazing.

Do you have a significant memory from the day?

I worked with an amazing stylist, Anna who’s sense of style is just spectacular. There was one look I was really worried about; I ended up scalp bleaching the model, she wasn’t a pro but I thought she had amazing features. I remember her being in front of the camera and thinking, “You have got so much potential.” As soon as Chris started shooting, the wind was going, Errol was in the room, and the atmosphere was electric. Seeing it all come to life like that is something I will carry forever.