Dear Shaded Viewers,
It is rare that a designer ends up epitomizing his or her Zeitgeist, expressing key questions -and offering answers- through original garments. Since her debut show in Paris last season, French designer Marine Serre has gathered loyal fans and won critics over with her uncompromising take on modern dressing. Serre’s main concern is women today, and the multiplicity of roles they play on a daily basis. This morning, her runway featured mothers and their children, some of the industry’s most iconic models whose beauty stood the test of time and other women who looked quite real, walking briskly and getting on with their lives. In fact, the word ‘SPEED’ appeared on several pieces, underlining the designer’s understanding of our times. Whether they wore clean pantsuits, ballgowns made out of upcycled fabrics or Formula 1 inspired separates, Serre’s women looked strong and determined. Her intelligent clothes stand for the dynamic union of sportswear and formal, progressive and mundane, new and recycled. Naming her collection ‘Hardcore Couture’, the Paris-based designer opened up a world of exciting possibilities with this show today, while never looking forced or heavy-handed. Marine Serre’s use of paradox and contradictions is getting quite fascinating.
Best,
Philippe
