Dear Shaded Viewers,
Caroline Hú delves into the complexities of love and death for her SS25 collection, exploring the emotions that arise from familial connections, friendships, and the broader world around us. Love, a captivating force, can evoke happiness but also lead to darkness, greed, and loneliness.
Inspired by the fleeting beauty of everyday life, the collection showcases vibrant colours and delicate forms that capture moments of connection and reflection. Featuring original prints of flowers, roses, mountains, and the sky, these enlarged illustrations and watercolours emulate the subtle nuances of human emotion. No doubt a reference to the live performance by dancers Emma Portner and Léo Handtschoewercker, Hú’s designs play with the idea of arrested motion. Boning and wire give the skirts and dresses a dynamic, almost sculptural quality, while playful asymmetry suggests a garment caught in a fleeting moment.
Key materials in the collection are silk taffeta, innovative performance fabrics with a taffeta-inspired appearance, printed silk organza, and fine stretch jersey that resemble organza. Hu’s signature smocking and partnership with Sophie Hallette’s tulle lace create a unique and sophisticated aesthetic.
Accessories also take centre stage with Hu continuing her successful collaboration with adidas Originals, offering a new reimagined take on both the Adidas SL72 and Superstar sneakers, set to launch in November this year. This time the sneakers are adorned with leather bows, giving them the perfect blend of streetwear and high fashion. A new collaboration with Casetify on a handcrafted ceramic pendant phone case, signals that Hu may be ready to explore new horizons this season.
Hu’s attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the collection. From the delicate embroidery to the luxurious fabrics, each element is thoughtfully chosen to complement the overall aesthetic and that is exactly what it does.
Later,
Bethany
