Altered Ego Design Ltd - Design Rationale

"Portholes on Elmslie"

Hi Anita
My partner, Tony, thinks the material you use over the shell looks like the sea, lovely.
See you Lori
Lori Davis, Nelson

Inspired by the areas of French Pass & d'Urville Island - the outermost part

of the Marlborough Sounds. French Pass is full of history from Captain Dumont d'Urville narrowly escaping shipwreck & "Pelorous Jack", the dolphin who guided ships out to sea through these dangerous waters.

The "portholes" in the collection comes from the ships & "Elmslie" is the French Pass settlement of Elmslie Bay. Paua & other shells for garments were collected from this beach.

A tribute to Maori history inspired the merino "Mana" merino wool feather top - a reference to the "korowai" or Maori Cloak.

The skirt has portholes cut out and paua shells encased in gold silk organza, similar to the brass portholes in ships.

The merino wool shell tops are variations on the theme with shells worn in the sleeves & chest in a scoop or v-neck.

Our garments are quality New Zealand made fashion and are warm & comfortable to wear. Our Collection resonates with your personal style rather than following a particular trend so you will enjoy many years wear from your purchases. Order now >>

Award winning New Zealand Designer Anita Jones presents her fresh new label Altered Ego Design. Original fashion inspired by NZ / Aotearoa. Her collection includes beautiful super-soft merino wool tops and subtly sexy wool skirts to match. Originally from the creative area of Nelson, She says "I was involved with The Wearable Art Awards so my fashion is contemporary and fresh with that little bit of wearable art in each garment!"