When did you start doing editorial design?
I started designing commercially about 5 years ago but making garments specifically for photo shoots was something I started about a year ago. Once Photographers, Bloggers and Stylists saw my works on social media, they reached out to me for collaborations. I felt it was a good idea so I jumped into it.
What goes into designing an outfit for a magazine cover?
I take into consideration the mood and the situation the garments will be worn in. I liaise with the stylist and the rest of the editorial team to figure out the theme or concept of the editorial. In editorial design, clothes can become an illustrative mean to tell a fashion story or project the model’s personality so every little detail is most essential from choice of fabrics, to the cut and structure of the garments. I also take into consideration the body figure and proportions of the model. This is one of the most important things I take note of.
Do you consider the personality of the person on the cover when designing the dress?
Most definitely. I believe every garment tells a story. It’s the job of the stylist and designer to make sure the garments project the personality of the Model wearing it unless the team is going for a completely different concept. I still believe garments that will work for Joselyn Dumas might not necessarily work for Yvonne Okoro and same as Nana Ama Mcbrown. Each of them have unique personalities that shouldn’t be confused with the garments they wear especially if the magazine’s main aim is to highlight their individual personalities.
What are some of the challenges you face in the designing process?
No matter how good of a designer you are, there might be issues with the fit of the dress especially if it’s your first time making garments for the client. Sometimes getting the right materials, fabrics or accessories in our local markets to bring your creativity to life becomes an issue. Most often you’d have to find something close to what you want or worse, find another alternative.
What are some of the things you’ve learned in editorial design?
Years ago, I thought making clothes for a magazine was just about making the most beautiful garments and putting them on the models. But I realized a lot goes into it. It’s a long design process which requires a lot of thinking and consideration. Like the location, the concept of the editorial, the personalities, the season, fabrics and colors.
Facebook: Yartel GH
Instagram:Yartel gh
E-mail: K.yartel17@gmail.com
Location: Dr. Seth Koranteng street, North-Alajo Accra
Check out some of his notable designs below:
