Dear Shaded Viewers,
When you think of survival, fur and bones might come to mind — primal, rugged elements that have been with us since our days in the caves. But in AREA’S latest collection, these raw materials undergo a transformation that’s nothing short of alchemical. Here, bones and fur aren’t just the stuff of life; they’re the very backbone of a collection that melds the archaic with the avant-garde.
What seems like fur is actually a masterful feat of trompe l’oeil, rendered in denim. The designer has managed to warp-print photocopied vintage fur pelts onto various fabrics, creating the illusion of real fur. It’s not just a trick of the eye; it’s a statement, a comment perhaps on the ephemerality and illusion inherent in fashion.
The construction is another revelation. By draping godet-like volumes into skirts, dresses, and coats, the brand transcends mere clothing and steps into the realm of sculpture. But we can’t talk about this collection without discussing the jewelry — pieces that have always been a hallmark of the brand. This season, we see bones once again, but they’re unlike any bones you’ve ever seen. Abstracted into forms that dance between the organic and the surreal, these bone shapes are lacquered, encrusted with Swarovski crystals, or molded into claws that look like they could have been plucked from some mythical creature.
In essence, AREA’S collection is a siren song that lures us into a new kind of survivalist mode — one where glamour, artistry, and everyday practicality coalesce into a form of modern armor. And in a world as unpredictable as ours, who wouldn’t want to be well-armored with trompe l’oeil denim protection.
Later,
Diane
