In today's fast-paced world, the beauty of being present in the moment has become a privileged and esoteric concept. However, slowing down, embracing vulnerability, and being fully present is essential for us both individually and collectively as a society. Vulnerability is the first step towards recognizing the need for change and growth, and it is necessary for progress and evolution. Moments of solitude, especially when facing the mirror while changing clothes, offer an opportunity for this vulnerability, self-reflection, and honesty. This process is beautiful as it allows us a moment to pause, to dream, to hope - hope that each day will bring joy and fulfill our desires, while the end of the day provides a moment of reflection or anticipation for the next. While at the same time clothes can provide this respite, joy, and beauty during these intimate moments. With my designs I always aim to empower women, or those who identify as women, to embrace their inner heroines, exuding confidence and grace in both moments of reflection and every step they take.
This collection is inspired by these vulnerable moments, while celebrating the fearless spirit and unwavering strength of women, their individuality, and the power of self-expression. Each look tells a story, capturing the essence of the clothes as they play a supporting role to the women who wear them. Flowing signature sari gowns are envisioned in glittery metallic knits, as well as in sumptuous silk chiffons in the red poppy floral print for this season. The dual nature of the poppy flower - intoxicating with its sharp and hallucinatory edge, while also symbolic for remembrance and hope - epitomizes the idea of the supporting role, ultimately for the wearer to decide what mood they want to evoke. Luxe raffia corded lace with a touch of casual insouciance is shown in virginal white alluding to a bridal innocence, while sultry red and transparent black showcase more suggestive and alluring attitudes in mini hemlines and sheer silhouettes. Gilded glamour is illustrated with gold leaf jersey hand draped in soft sculptural top and sari-inspired skirt that looks as if it’s dripping off each curve with its liquid finish. Hand crafted pieces by women in Nepal include sequin separates paired only with lingerie to showcase their detail, and hand knit bright figure-hugging dresses with undone fringe to add an element of texture. Luxurious cottons give a feeling of nonchalance and confidence, where draped and tailored jerseys have both fluidity and toughness. Leather motorcycle jackets collaged with uber luxurious hand-woven silk floral brocade and impeccably tailored suiting in a mimosa color (favorites of celebrities and first ladies) emerge as powerful symbols of strength for the woman who fearlessly embraces her individuality and conquers the world with unwavering determination - the definition of femininity with a bite.
The collection is brought to life through photographs that emanate the spirit of Carlo Mollino's iconic Polaroids, which embody his style of intimate portraiture and staged vintage interiors. The juxtaposition of soft, dream-like lighting and bold, confident poses creates an intoxicating atmosphere of timeless glamour drawing us into a world where reality and fantasy blur - a place that forces us to pause, reflect, and ultimately the place that allows us to dream about who we want to be. The images exude a sense of voyeurism, as if we are peering into a secret world of elegance and opulence. These moments capturing the vulnerable states between dressing highlight the visible underpinnings and delicate lingerie, perhaps alluding of things to come for the brand.
Seen through the lens of photographer and friend, Yuki James, the direction for the models was to imagine that they were being photographed by a lover to evoke more intimacy and longing with every shot. Art Director, Jason Duzanksy, was instrumental in envisioning and interpreting Mollino’s Polaroids in a modern sense. The collection is styled by fellow House of Slay member Tina Leung - with her impeccable eye and attention to detail, she brought this vision to life through bold and stripped-down pairings to show the looks in various stages of dress, or undress. I speak so much about communities important to me, and one is that of my friends. Working with Yuki, Jason, and Tina on this project was an invaluable experience, as it allowed for a deeper level of trust, collaboration, and shared vision. Their familiarity with my creative process and personal journey brought an unparalleled level of understanding and authenticity to the project. Together, we were able to create something truly special, infused with love, support, and a sense of camaraderie that shines through in every aspect of this project. And most importantly, we created a moment to pause, to be fully present, and to be vulnerable - yet empowering - with one another.