Rhythms of nature infuse the pulse of life – fueling our imagination with nonlinear perspectives. The tangible and the abstract, the seen and the unseen, this season ArdAzAei questions the status quo, embracing the unknown. On a quest to explore ideals and possibilities, creative director Bahareh Ardakani reflects on theoretical physics with the substantial beauty of couture at Musée des Arts Décoratifs.
The Calabi-Yau manifolds as the anthem of the collection—a geometric structure in ten-dimensional form composed of multiple observable particles. I know that some of us still experience trauma from the unfamous Pythagorean theorem; simply bear with me. With this collection, we’re moving up to the advanced class, nourished with multifaceted shapes, intricate pleating, mathematical composition of lines of crystals, and bespoke embroidery. Unseen in our three-dimensional world, these layers of complex geometrical structures resemble flower petals when spread out and metamorphose into infinite loops when folded. “It’s about the idea of the universe being folded, and the vibrating strings of fibers that form the scaffolding of each piece.” highlighted Bahareh Ardakani.
Calabi-Yau in bloom is the unifying theme of ArdAzAei Couture 24-25, an emphasis on our inner femininity, romance, and natural beauty. Adding layers of significance, flowers infuse emotional resonance, unveiling hidden dimensions with kinetic gowns and satin petals juxtaposed in levels. A mad crush for the strapless GOTS-certified dress in organic silk blossoming into franc–cut half-flowers – the visual bouquet we’ve been waiting for. A cosmic thread with the resurgence of 3D-printed embroidery sequences. Beads and crystals are magnified in patterns that mimic the oscillating loops of strings, capturing the essence of their dynamic energy and the underlying theme of the universe’s intricate structure.
Tailoring takes on a new dimension as traditional forms are deconstructed and reimagined. Corset silhouettes are designed to accentuate the passage of time, a parallel dimension, forming an hourglass figure that speaks to the fleeting nature of existence. Futuristic high collars are on the rise, shoulders are stripped from lapels, and overcoats are transposed into diaphanous silk dresses.
ArdAzAei Couture 24-25’s narrative is not confined to theoretical constructs but is revived into a delicate, tactile world of couture. Every fold and pleat represents a dimension, and every embellishment echoes the vibrations of the fundamental strings. Unseen dimensions lie beneath the surface of our perceivable world; each folds a secret, and each creases a dimension unto itself – Calabi-Yau as a profound framework for understanding the universe.
