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Renowned Australian video game writer, actor and former journalist, Alanah Pearce, turned heads at the 2024 LA Gaming Awards, walking the red carpet in a bespoke ruby-red dress designed by ARK/8 in collaboration with Escama.
Custom-made in Barcelona, the striking dress drew inspiration from Elden Ring’s DLC, Shadow of the Erdtree, and its antagonist, Messmer the Impaler.
©Bandai Namco Entertainment Inc. / ©FromSoftware, Inc.
The collaboration came about when Franc Studio, the creators of Escama, reached out to ARK/8 on Instagram, expressing admiration for their imaginative world. This mutual appreciation blossomed into an extraordinary partnership, culminating in the creation of this unique gown - a true celebration of creativity and craftsmanship.
I love how dynamic and dimensional the dress is - there are so many different pieces that come together to create the shape, which is sort of an organic flow. Also, you can never go wrong with a hooded dress!
— Alanah Pearce
Talking about drawing inspiration from Messmer the Impaler, Escama's founder Franc Navarro, said: "We focused on three defining elements: a striking red colour palette, the layered intricacy of chainmail, and a composition of multiple interlocking pieces.
"To complete the look, we also worked to ensure the makeup seamlessly complemented the outfit, creating a cohesive and impactful presence. As a playful nod to the inspiration, we included a custom label for the outfit, featuring Messmer’s in-game stats - an Easter egg for fans of Elden Ring.”
Alanah is a regular presence at the annual event, which this year welcomed juggernauts from the games industry alongside Hollywood stars and globally celebrated musicians.
“I’ve been to every single Game Awards and have slowly been trying to have more and more fun with the ‘fashion’ aspect of the show," explained Alanah. "When the ARK/8 team mentioned being interested in collaborating, I jumped at it! I sent over the idea - or specifically, that I wanted it to be inspired by Messmer from Elden Ring - and ARK/8 and Escama really took it from there. It was very cool to see these absolute pros take a vague concept and turn it into something so unique and creative.”
This collaboration between ARK/8, Escama, and Alanah Pearce is a testament to the evolving relationship between gaming culture and high fashion, illustrating how the art of storytelling can transcend mediums and create something truly extraordinary.
“It’s been an honour and absolute pleasure to work with Alanah and Escama on this project," said ARK/8 founder Dimitri. "It’s the artistic culmination of what ARK/8 stands for: blending the worlds of gaming and fashion in the boldest possible way.”