OVERARCHING CONCEPT

The initial jumping off point of my collection came from the ocean. My captivation by its beauty yet fear of its great power sparked many explorations on how to abstract and portray these qualities of water. After much time spent out west by the ocean and amid massive rock formations, I became exceedingly aware of the grand forces of nature and the forms that they symbiotically create. As someone enamored by metallics, sleek silhouettes, and technology, I transitioned my fascination with the ocean and rock formations into a more futuristic realm. This conceptual evolution represents more than a stylistic shift; it is a deliberate exploration into the symbiosis between nature's longstanding power and cutting-edge design and technology. The core belief that embracing biomimicry and designing with intentionality can pave the way for a more positive and sustainable future became a guiding principle of my collection. Intertwining the wisdom gleaned from nature with intentional and innovative design practices, I aim to shape a future where the natural and manmade world exist in harmony.

In a world undergoing profound shifts, a tapestry of interconnected societal, lifestyle, and aesthetic trends unfolds. As society navigates this transformative journey, subtle yet powerful currents shape the way we live, connect, and express ourselves through fashion. This narrative extends beyond mere style, encompassing a holistic reflection of our evolving values and aspirations.

INTENTIONAL LIVING

Consumers today are not solely motivated by the appearance and functionality of the products they buy. Rather, they are increasingly captivated by the stories embedded within these commodities. This shift in perspective marks a transition towards intentional living, where each purchase is infused with a distinct purpose. Shopping has transcended the transactional nature, delving into the realms of personal identity and values, highlighting a profound connection between individuals and their chosen products.

SURREALISM

The extinction panic of the 1920s sees a resurgence in the polycrisis of the 2020s, and with it, the resurgence of surrealism. Just like a century ago, creativity that rejects all logic and builds its own worlds serves as a means of escapism for those grappling with the challenges of widespread distress. Surrealism now intertwines with AI, as contemporary artists and innovators leverage new technologies to explore new manifestations of the human experience. AI’s novel articulations of the visual world, often transcending the ordinary imagination, provide an escape and anticipation for the future potential of technology. These technological advancements, coupled with the merging of digital and physical realms, shape evolving aesthetic preferences, fueling a demand for whimsical, futuristic styles. This ushers in a new aesthetic era of AI-infused surrealism and transforms consumer expectations, driving a desire for technologically-innovative products and experiences.

CREATIVE SIMPLICITY

Consumers are increasingly gravitating towards a minimalist ethos, prioritizing not just aesthetics but also practicality with a 'less is more' mentality. Despite this desire for simplicity, we still see fashion and self-expression acting as a canvas for pleasure, fun, and multisensory stimulation. These contrasting trends converge through avant-garde fabrics, rich tactile textures, intentional design elements, and unconventional silhouettes, seamlessly blending sophistication and simplicity with a touch of playfulness and creativity.

SUSTAINABILITY

The emerging concept of “Multi-Species Thinking,” as coined by WGSN, propels a design revolution that extends beyond human boundaries, embracing the interconnected needs and rights of nature, animals, and plants and sparking a new, deepened understanding of what true sustainability is. Faced with dwindling resources and environmental challenges, a paradigm shift is underway, compelling industries and consumers alike to embrace more sustainable practices. Recycling, reselling, repairing, and waste reduction, as well as the strengthening of local supply chains, are of growing importance to companies and individuals. Alternative fibers, processing methods, and waste sorting ecosystems are seeing accelerated investments as textile legislation and consumer expectations evolve.

TRANSHUMANISM

Technologies for daily wear and digital enhancements are increasingly commonplace, pushing humanity towards an era in which the line between human and machine are completely blurred. This convergence of the human body with digital design has birthed widespread transhumanist beliefs and captivating sci-fi aesthetics that seamlessly integrate human elements with technological prowess. While some of the admired AI or CAD-generated designs may currently be impractical, their influence has permeated avant-garde collections and fashion trends. Notably, Kay Kwok’s designs envision future bodies adorned with intricate chrome armor, and designer Rohan Mirza crafts jewelry reminiscent of cyber prosthetics. As this trend and humanity’s technological curiosity persist, anticipations rise for significant advancements in luxury tech wearables, collaborative endeavors between the tech industry and designers, and innovative materials and textures supporting the transhumanist aesthetic.