Photoshoot + Interview: 'Marie’s Garden' by Julia Chew ft. Xiaolin Design
Marie's Garden is a beautifully ethereal photo shoot by the talented Julia Chew.
Not just a star behind the camera, Julia is also the fashion designer of the stunning dresses you see throughout this shoot.
When she isn't running her own successful photography business, she can be found creating bespoke gowns for her own label, Xiaolin Design.
We're so honoured to bring you this incredible series and are also excited to announce that you can keep reading for an inspiring interview with the photographer and designer herself. Enjoy!
Q: Where did the initial idea and inspiration for this photo shoot come from?
A: The inspiration is a whimsical Marie Antoinette with dramatic rococo inspired hair and larger-than-life roses. Marie had a rose garden with a similar white gazebo as the one in our photos.
I love how bold and yet soft the rococo era was with bold fashion statements, an overdose of florals, and soft pastel tones. Wealthy men and women of this era embellished their hats and homes with luxurious feathers. I feel my feather dresses would have fit the era beautifully.
Q: We understand that you not only photographed this gorgeous series, but your beautiful fashion designs are also showcased. What was it like juggling the roles of both photographer and designer for this shoot?
A: I love to envision how my dresses will be displayed and placing them in their own fairytale setting helps them come to life. Planning creative photo shoots is my reward for finishing new designs.
It’s very exciting to add new photos to my portfolio and I aim to create eye catching images to sell my gowns. As the photographer on set it helps to be able to pose the models myself to show the dresses from the best angle.
Q: Please tell us a little more about your label, Xiaolin design?
A: I design and sew custom couture gowns and wedding dresses. My specialty is feather gowns. Clients from all around the world send me their measurements and ideas of dress style and color and I work with them step by step to create their dream dress.
Q: Do you have any other exciting projects or plans in the works that you'd like to share with us?
A: I have fallen in love with designing wedding gowns. The white and ivory dresses featured in this photo shoot are from my new Swan Lake bridal collection.
My inspiration for the collection is a romantic swan ballerina. The designs include full feather gowns, feather corsets, feather capes, and soft tulle skirts.
We want to thank Julia for sharing this incredible series with us and for taking the time to answer our interview questions. We encourage you to view more of her work by visiting her website, Facebook page and Instagram (@xiaolindesign). You can also view more of her fashion label via Facebook..Full credits: Photography: Julia Chew | Flowers: Iris Ruz (@iris_secret_garden) | Models: Monique Brigham (@moniquebrigham) + Susan Diaz (@susan_model) | Hair: Amanda Killen (@stylistamandaelaine) | Makeup: Rayben Baltan (@the.beautyenhancer) | Photo Assistant: Stephen Swett (@thegloriousend) | Wardrobe: Xiaolin - Fashion Designer (@xiaolindesign).