Bianca Saunders, ever the trailblazer, has woven her magic once again, this time in the enchanting setting of Palais de Tokyo. By fusing her unique vision with the sports-luxe vibe of the iconic British brand Farah, she has yet again broken boundaries and given life to an Spring/Summer 2024 collection full of freshness.
Imagine walking into a stage punctuated with giant images of vibrantly coloured stones, blossoms, an imposing boulder, and an oversized LP record. Immediately, you are hit with the vivacity of colours, a mirror of Jamaican musician and producer Lee “Scratch” Perry’s eclectic style, and Saunders’ source of inspiration for this collection. As the models tread across the runway, the audience can’t help but marvel at the relaxed and contemporary vibe, with an unmistakable hint of workwear chic.
The high point of the show was perhaps the model donning a tomato-red top made of paper, an epitome of Saunders’ avant-garde approach. Add to this, the model who confidently strode in cobalt blue, the perfect colour to reflect the warmth of the Paris summer, the collection’s audacity was a sight to behold.
Detail is where Saunders truly shines. Take, for example, the long, draped blue plaid shirt with a signature Saunders tuck in the front and a distinct X-shaped detail at the back. It was a testament to her commitment to unique fashion statements.
Of particular note was the denim. Saunders has a knack for making ordinary fabrics extraordinary. This was evident in her denim work; lightweight yet structured, moulded into roomy trousers, sleek workwear jackets paired with matching shorts, and oversized short-sleeve shirts featuring spread collars.
Last but not least, a model appeared, perfectly attired for the heat of the Parisian summer. Clad in a delicate white tank top with an asymmetrical neckline, loose khaki trousers, and an orange cummerbund — a hint of citrus freshness was infused into the hot, humid day.
From the Farah archive’s cool cotton and hopsack pieces to Lee “Scratch” Perry’s bold tones and eclectic style, Saunders’ spring collection is a sensory delight. The designs are not only a fresh and laid-back expression of Saunders’ aesthetic but also a love letter to her inspirations, skilfully weaving in unexpected materials and silhouettes. This collection is testament to Saunders’ continuing evolution as a designer and her unending commitment to push the boundaries of men’s fashion.
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