In a heady blend of throbbing beats and inventive fashion, Matthew M. Williams unveiled his 1017 Alyx 9SM Spring/Summer 2024 collection. The unveiling had the same raw energy as Berlin’s world-renowned techno club, Berghain, at the cusp of a pulsating night. The beating heart of the show, much like Berghain, was the intoxicating fusion of music and fashion, both weaving a narrative as intricate as it was compelling.
Williams, the creative force behind 1017 Alyx 9SM, has a renowned affinity for music, and this season it played a particularly pivotal role. The show’s pulsating soundtrack was the creative brainchild of Jack Latham, also known as Jam City, an electronic music producer and close collaborator of Williams. This blend of sartorial and sonic artistry created an immersive experience that resonated through the warehouse space in which the show took place.
Williams’ runway was graced by a cast that included friends tied to emerging music scenes, like Atlanta-based rapper Hardrock and British indie-rock artist Bakar. Clad in Williams’ finely honed, luxury streetwear, these models echoed the confidence and gritty authenticity that both Berghain and the collection itself embody.
The collection highlighted 1017 Alyx 9SM’s signature industrial style, with silver grommets accentuating raglan sleeves of oversized blousons, while the brand’s famed rollercoaster buckles and small silver studs lined up on plaid shirt sleeves. Each item embodied a refined ruggedness and streetwise sophistication, encapsulating the essence of the label.
Williams has always voiced his affinity for “clothes with soul,” and this sentiment was evident in the carefully curated weathered look of the canvas coats, artfully stained jerseys, and treated leather vests. This strategic styling made it appear as though the models truly owned these clothes, instilling a sense of authenticity to the collection.
The show concluded with models robed in black dressing gowns, sporting chunky soled boots, a perfect embodiment of their youthful spirit and their readiness to embrace the party. The dusted rubber heels added to the authentic, lived-in feel of the ensemble, reinforcing Williams’ dedication to creating fashion that resonates with real-life wear and experiences.
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