Exploring Ireland’s Ancient Inspiration with JJ Martin

Some designers go on inspiration trips. JJ Martin does vision quests. Her latest journey took her to the mystical land of Ireland, where she immersed herself in the beauty of crumbling ruins, galactically charged rocks, and energy portals. The experience was a transformative one, culminating at Trinity College in Dublin where she and her group had the rare opportunity to lay eyes on the mesmerizing Book of Kells, a ninth century illuminated manuscript.

“It literally looks like they were all taking psychedelics,” Martin shared with enthusiasm. “I couldn’t believe what I saw and I got super inspired.” The intricate swirling motifs, kaleidoscopic patterns, and animalistic designs found in the Columban monks’ colorful drawings sparked a creative fire within Martin and her team. They translated these ancient inspirations into stunning prints adorning pajama sets, jumpsuits, dresses, and even a striking new style featuring a single goddess-like draped sleeve. The motifs also found their way onto an oversized intarsia knit cape, adding a touch of whimsy and history to the collection.

Despite the trend of Milan leaning towards the safety of black, La DoubleJ continues to embrace a vibrant, maximalist aesthetic. Each mannequin in Martin’s “starquarters” was adorned with pendant necklaces from her jewelry line, featuring 24K gold plate, enamel, gemstone fireflies, scarabs, and portal pendants. Colorful tasseled leather sandals, crafted by Indian artisans, completed the bold and eclectic looks. The collection, predominantly made in Italy, showcases intricate embroideries from India that embellish not only dresses but also more tailored pieces such as a gray coat with pink feathers and pearly buttons, and a camel wool skirt suit with confetti-like fringe detailing.

With her signature tortoiseshell glasses swirling in a manner reminiscent of her Kells-inspired prints, one can’t help but wonder if an optics line is in the works for La DoubleJ. “Do I need one?” Martin laughed. Knowing her boundless creativity and drive, it wouldn’t be surprising if she adds eyewear to her ever-expanding repertoire by the next time we gather at the starquarters to see what magic she’s conjured up.