1 March 2024 |
Entitled Patterns of Attraction, Rabanne’s AW24 offering, was a miscellaneous medley of checks, florals, animal print and houndstooth that avoided falling into the trap of garish disaster and instead felt elevated and wonderfully chic.
Using layers to explore the idea of everyday individuality, a vast range of visual references informed Julien Dossena’s collection. Grunge, art school, tailored menswear and graphic design from the ‘70s converged in a rainbow of burnt orange, rich blue and powdery yellow to leave an impression that was rich as it was sweet. Silhouettes were minimal but not boring, with jackets and blazers that sat on the boxy side and midi skirts cut with slits down their middle.
Ornamentation was a theme throughout, with silvery embellishments, swishy tassels and geometric flowers sprinkled on tights, skirts and cardigans. The freedom to style the pieces any which way you please was emphasised across each of the looks, with unlikely pairings like a graphic tee and sheer sequinned skirt. Quilting, faux fur and furry pashminas also affirmed that the Rabanne customer wouldn’t have to worry about sacrificing warmth for style. The accessories were also a triumph, with calf-high leather boots and strappy kitten heels accompanying most of the looks. A little weird makes things all the more wonderful.
Photography by Christina Fragkou.
