Dear Shaded Viewers,
In a blend of ancient inspiration and contemporary flair, Charaf Tajer, the visionary behind Casablanca, unveiled a collection that bridges millennia, drawing from the rich tapestry of ancient Greek influence on modern civilization. At the heart of this collection is the exploration of Greece’s monumental contributions to architecture, philosophy, and even psychedelics, with a surprising nod to the mystic rituals of Eleusis—a city renowned for its clandestine, mind-altering ceremonies.
Tajer’s latest offering is no stranger to the psychedelic ethos, previously celebrated for its idealistic leanings. This time, within the amphitheater-esque Cirque d’Hiver, attendees were whisked away to a choreographed beachscape at dusk, where performers’ fluid arm movements mimicked the ebb and flow of the sea, creating a mesmerizing backdrop to a collection that seduces with its clever reinterpretation of classic silhouettes and audacious textiles.
Sporting a palette that transitions from tranquil blues to vibrant gradients, the collection redefines classic drapery and sportswear with a modern twist, incorporating elements like wrestler belts and letterman jackets that cleverly integrate ancient Greek references. The women’s pieces, notably more sensual, showcased a daring edge, symbolized by Jessica Stam’s eye-catching corset ensemble in the show’s finale.
The theme, “Venus as a Boy,” echoes Björk’s musical homage to beauty, aligning with Tajer’s philosophy of aesthetic and intellectual fusion. This collection not only reflects a deep cultural immersion—from ancient Greece to modern Nigeria—but also underscores a commitment to comprehensive design that spans fashion’s diverse spectrum without succumbing to cliché or controversy.
Later,
Leticia