By Haleema SS
“The Ritual” were the words Alessandro Michele used to define the show, ‘theatrical’ is mine.
The catwalk show was flipped inside out. Backstage became the main stage. There were two, three or more people working on each model which implied fashion is never a singular experience. The circular stage moved like a carousel as models were getting dressed from hairstyles to accessories to footwear. After getting dressed, the models stood at the front like mannequins in a shop window as the stage continued to move.
Pilgrim-esque black dresses, baby doll dresses, Edwardian gowns and tulle skirts evoked a sense of femininity. But to add an edge, leather harnesses were present. Though the dramatic element of the show was great, the collection as a whole was good. The outfits didn’t flow together as each had a story to tell of its own. There wasn’t a sense of a collective identity as there were too many symbols of religion, childhood and whimsical babydoll elements. Also, the introduction of the distressed, wide-leg jeans paired with bohemian-style tops made the communion even more confusing. The show needed some grounding as the outfits with its many details became too much to process.
Ultimately, the intensity and suspense made the show a delight to observe. The eclectic experience of what happens behind the curtain was representative of the digital age we live in. Everything is instant but often we forget the many people behind the carnations of fashion.
My favourite outfits:
Style Species 