Kingdom of Dreams

Title Sequence

A visual tapestry of the unfolding narrative, we used the title sequence to set the tone for all of the episodic graphics and cutaways. Each asset was designed to signify major plot points contained within the series – a tailor’s mannequin acts as the centrepiece, with half of it draped stylistically while the rest is decayed and distressed. Viewers follow the sequence forward as it threads the dramatic rise and fall of the industry’s major players together. Starting with glamour and glitz, a series of silhouettes and animations unravel a darker underbelly, teasing drugs, money and global domination.

Style Development

Mannequin Style Development

The mannequin symbolised the highest and lowest points of the fashion industry’s evolution. In its first conception, viewers are introduced to a highly decorative and bejewelled mannequin. At its conclusion, the mannequin is halved, revealing the contrasting influences in the pursuit of global domination.

Sewing Machine Style Development

Death is a poignant subject throughout this period of fashion, featuring both the murder of Maurizio Gucci and the suicide of Lee Alexander McQueen. Not to mention the demise of the industry itself. This is encapsulated by a sewing machine, built to represent the style and workings of an AK-47 assault rifle.

Perfume Bottle Style Development

Bernard Arnault’s ruthless acquisition of the Boussac Saint-Freres textile conglomerate is the catalyst of the tycoon’s monopoly on the industry. We visually portrayed this event using the iconic Diorissimo perfume bottle – his mother’s favourite Dior product. The consequent sacrifice of the nine-thousand Boussac Saint-Freres employees laid off is presented through the spoiling of its contents with blood.

Handbag Style Development

The renowned Gucci bamboo handbag, made famous by Princess Diana, not only represents the handbag wars of the late 90s, but also the considerable drive in black market sales of these luxury goods, the revenue of which was spuriously linked with funding of the 9/11 terror attacks.