Wrapped in a giant black puffer despite the blistering Californian sun, Blackpink member Lisa stepped out onto Coachella’s main stage on Friday for her first solo performance at the festival. Within minutes, the huge coat was whisked away — revealing a reptilian bodysuit covered in head-to-toe scales. “She’s the reptilian villain,” said the look’s designer, Asher Levine, in a video call from his studio in Los Angeles. “It’s very creature couture.” Levine, who has created otherworldly stage-wear for Lady Gaga, Grace Jones, Doja Cat, Christina Aguilera and Grimes, got the call to create both of Lisa’s technologically advanced Coachella looks less than a month before her performance date. “We’ve been going for a week and a half, day and night,” he told CNN in the days leading up to the event. “I went to bed early last night for this interview.” For her custom 3D reptile suit, Levine first took a body scan of the K-pop star to capture her precise measurements, which he then uploaded to a digital tailoring system which enables him to drape and adjust textiles on Lisa’s virtual avatar before the outfit goes into production. Next, he designed a unique geometric scale print using AI, and then passed the two-dimensional textile design onto his studio’s sculpture division to handcraft each individual scute — mimicking a lizard’s interlocking scales. The designer, who calls himself a “leather industry disruptor,” hopes to one day create cruelty-free versions of leather goods and exotic skins such as crocodiles and alligators. “We don’t have to kill animals anymore,” he said. “We can evolve beyond that.” Even with the aid of digital tools, the reptilian costume took meticulous work over a handful of days, with the smallest details, such as the translucent scales and horns that sat on Lisa’s shoulders, each taking between 50 and 60 hours to make. Illuminating inspiration For Lisa’s second performance look — an ethereal sheer catsuit complete with glowing 3-D- printed blue and pink tendrils — Levine looked to another area of nature for inspiration. “A lot of the references were bioluminescent insects (and) translucent fungi with illuminated veins running through the petals,” said Levine. “People have been putting nature on themselves for thousands of years: flowers, animal prints. But now (I’m thinking) what’s exotic 2.0?” For Levine, that approach meant fusing prehistoric creatures with futuristic technology — something he’s done before with his Terrelli clutch bag, which was inspired by the 300-million-year-old extinct fish Dunkleosteus Terrelli. “What I like to do with my designs is create chimeric organisms (and build) a new, evolved, exotic extension of this character,” he explained. Each of the 20-something luminescent tendrils worn by Lisa featured a fiber optic light that created an extra-terrestrial glow. “We started experimenting with embedded illumination in 2011,” said Levine, recalling a project a decade earlier with the Grammy-winning artist Will.i.am. “He was like, ‘Can you embed lights in clothes?’ And me being very enthusiastic said, ‘Yeah, let’s figure it out.’” Since then, he’s hooked Gaga, Aguilera and Grimes up to featherweight lights for a variety of shows, and has perfected his use of flexible, glass-like materials for built-in luminosity. For her Coachella performance, Lisa wore a series of clear petals across her chest that “looked like glass but bent like leather,” said Levine, holding a petal up to the camera and manipulating it with his hands to demonstrate. “This is the future that Blade Runner predicted.” One of the biggest challenges for Levine is producing a technologically advanced outfit that allows high-octane artists to move freely. After all, these are not static looks, such as those that might feature in a magazine editorial. “Building these pieces for a performance is literally like building for a sports athlete,” he explained. However, Levine recognizes that a second-skin scaly bodysuit may only appeal to specific entertainers, but so far, he’s found likeminded clients who seek to push boundaries not only with their work but also in their style. “These are the kinds of people that I’ve been focused on evolving,” he continued. “That’s who my customer is. You’re the other, you’re avant-garde. Asher Levine isn’t for everyone.”
Exclusive: Meet the designer behind Lisa’s reptilian Coachella look
TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:
"Designer Asher Levine Discusses Lisa's Unique Coachella Performance Outfits"
CNN
7.6
TruthLens AI Summary
During her first solo performance at Coachella, Blackpink member Lisa captivated the audience with an eye-catching reptilian bodysuit designed by Asher Levine. The outfit, which was revealed after Lisa removed a large black puffer coat, showcased intricate head-to-toe scales that embodied a 'creature couture' aesthetic. Levine, known for his innovative designs for high-profile artists like Lady Gaga and Doja Cat, was tasked with creating Lisa's looks just weeks before the festival. To craft the custom 3D reptile suit, Levine utilized advanced technology, including a body scan of Lisa to ensure a perfect fit, and a digital tailoring system that allowed him to visualize the outfit on a virtual avatar. The production process was labor-intensive, with each detail, such as the translucent scales and shoulder horns, requiring substantial time and effort, reflecting Levine's commitment to meticulous craftsmanship.
For Lisa's second look, an ethereal sheer catsuit adorned with glowing 3D-printed tendrils, Levine drew inspiration from bioluminescent insects and translucent fungi, pushing the concept of nature-inspired fashion into a futuristic realm. He emphasized the importance of merging prehistoric and modern elements in his designs, as seen in previous works inspired by ancient creatures. The luminescent tendrils, featuring fiber optic lights, added an otherworldly glow to Lisa's performance attire. Levine highlighted the challenge of creating outfits that allow performers to move freely while still being technologically advanced. He aims to cater to avant-garde artists who seek to redefine fashion boundaries, illustrating that his designs are not for everyone but resonate with those willing to embrace the extraordinary.
TruthLens AI Analysis
The article provides a detailed insight into the creative process behind Lisa's eye-catching reptilian look for her Coachella performance. It highlights the designer's innovative techniques and the collaborative effort that went into crafting the outfit, emphasizing the blend of fashion and technology. This narrative serves to elevate Lisa's status as a fashion icon while showcasing the designer's expertise and vision.
Intent Behind the Article
This piece appears to aim at celebrating artistic innovation in fashion, particularly in the context of high-profile performances. By focusing on the intricate design process and the technological advancements in costume creation, the article seeks to inspire admiration for both the artist and the designer. It serves to enhance the perception of live performances as not just musical events but as multi-faceted artistic endeavors.
Public Perception
The portrayal of Lisa as a "reptilian villain" in a "creature couture" outfit may evoke curiosity and excitement among fans and fashion enthusiasts. It positions her not merely as a performer but as a trendsetter in the fashion industry. This narrative could foster a sense of exclusivity and allure around her brand, potentially increasing her appeal to a broader audience.
Possible Concealments
While the article focuses on the positive aspects of the collaboration between Lisa and the designer, it may obscure the pressures and challenges associated with such high-stakes performances. The intense timeline and the meticulous nature of the work, although mentioned, do not delve into the potential stress experienced by the artists and designers involved.
Manipulative Elements
The article's manipulative aspect lies in its glamorization of the fashion process and the lack of discussion around the potential environmental impact of fashion production. By emphasizing innovation and creativity, it may divert attention from the ethical considerations surrounding costume design, particularly in relation to animal products.
Truthfulness of the Article
The piece appears credible, given the specificity of details regarding the design process and the designer's background. However, it may be presenting a somewhat idealized view of the fashion industry and the collaboration.
Societal Messaging
The article promotes a narrative that aligns with contemporary values of sustainability and innovation in fashion. It suggests a shift towards cruelty-free materials, which may resonate with environmentally conscious consumers and fans of ethical fashion.
Comparative Context
When compared to other fashion-related articles, this piece stands out by focusing on technological advancements in costume design rather than just celebrity culture. It connects the worlds of technology, art, and performance, potentially appealing to a diverse audience interested in these intersections.
Impact on Society and Economy
As a high-profile event, Coachella influences fashion trends and consumer behavior. This article could lead to increased interest in sustainable fashion practices and innovative design, impacting the market for cruelty-free materials and technology-driven fashion.
Target Audience
The article likely appeals to fans of K-pop, fashion enthusiasts, and those interested in technological advancements in design. It targets a demographic that values creativity, sustainability, and the blending of art forms.
Market Influence
While this specific article may not directly affect stock markets, it highlights trends in the fashion industry that could influence investments in sustainable fashion brands or technology companies specializing in fashion innovation.
Geopolitical Relevance
Though the article does not directly address geopolitical issues, the themes of sustainability and ethical fashion can intersect with global discussions on environmental responsibility and animal rights.
Potential Use of AI
The mention of using AI in the design process suggests that there may have been AI tools involved in creating the geometric scale print. These technologies can shape consumer perceptions of fashion, emphasizing modernity and innovation.
Manipulative Underpinnings
The article's language celebrates innovation while possibly downplaying the ethical dilemmas associated with the fashion industry. This selective focus can serve to create a favorable image of both the designer and the artist, while raising questions about the broader implications of such a narrative.
Ultimately, the article serves to highlight the exciting intersection of fashion, technology, and performance art, but it may also gloss over the complexities inherent in the fashion industry. Its focus on innovation and creativity positions it favorably in the current cultural landscape, promoting a vision of a more ethical and advanced future in fashion.