The art and fashion worlds have always walked side by side, and we selected some collaborations that celebrate this love affair. Metaverse and brand awareness are also in our picks. Check them out!
Stepping into the Regency Era
The shoe brand Malone Souliers has created a 14-piece capsule collection inspired by the Netflix series Bridgerton. The Bridgerton X Malone Souliers collection brings unique footwear for dramatic and grand looks. Iconic designs such as Maureen and Frankie are reimagined in opulent Regency-inspired materials that reference characters from the show. The Marguerite design has been covered in lace mesh to incorporate an empire-line silhouette and delicate bow embellishment. Meanwhile, ball-worthy details amp up the drama in the Marion slingback. “We had a huge amount of fun designing this collection and getting inspired by the show’s incredible costumes, so I wanted to capture some of that energy for the big reveal. I can’t wait to see these shoes turning heads as they step out in public this spring,” said Mary Alice Malone, Malone Souliers’ Creative Director and Founder.
Fashion Meets Art
The swimming trunks and summer clothing brand Vilebrequin has partnered with JRP|Editions, a publishing house specialising in art books, for a colourful and art-inspired collection. In their first brand collaboration, the publishing house introduces the following creative artists: Kenny Scharf, Sylvie Fleury, John M Armleder and Deux Femmes Noires (Racquel Chevremont & Mickalene Thomas). “Our swimsuit fabrics are new terrain for artists. We do not consider what we do art; we’re more focused on reproducing artists’ work as closely as possible to the original in the most honest and respectful manner,” explained Roland Herlory, Vilebrequin’s CEO and contemporary art collector. With the know-how of Vilebrequin studio and ateliers, they deliver printing techniques that reproduce an original artwork’s unique colour and contrast as faithfully as possible. Presented as precious collectors’ volumes with their own hardcovers, the Artists’ Editions belong on your bookshelf as they do in your suitcase.
Vacation Mode On
This season, MAX&Co. partners with artist Isabella Cotier to create a summer capsule called: La Vacanza. Isabella is a Florence-based artist known for her playful and colourful style. Her irreverent illustrations capture postcard-perfect scenes, from tables full of food and drinks to dancing nights and girls zipping around on pushbikes. These are found splashed on new takes on the signature MAX&Co. logo tee, plus two scarves. “I wanted to celebrate the traditions and atmosphere of Italy, its rich culture and energy that endlessly feeds into my work,” affirms Isabella. The &Co.llaboration capsule is an ongoing part of the MAX&Co. story, where friends of the brand – from established names to emerging talents – are invited to participate in limited-edition, seasonal capsules, putting their own spin on the brand’s distinct codes.
Virtual Style
The fashion styling mobile game DREST has been partnering with brands such as Gucci and Prada to include their creations in their virtual universe. The jewellery line Messika by Kate Moss entered the metaverse through Kate Moss’ collaboration with the app. The platform has a selection of supermodel avatars, and Kate Moss stepped into the DREST world for two weeks as a guest. Kate’s avatar featured five unique hairstyles designed in consultation with her hairstylist, Sam McKnight, and three exclusive backgrounds – a fashion runway, a Cotswolds field and a luxury hotel lobby. The limited appearance included styling challenges, with the winner taking a real Messika by Kate Moss piece home. DREST’s digital fashion assortment is provided by Farfetch and brands directly, enabling users to seamlessly shop the in-demand pieces they have styled virtually in real life.
Regional Representation
The jewellery brand MARLI New York, headquartered in the Big Apple, handcrafts 18-carat gold and diamond pieces in sophisticated designs inspired by passionate and ambitious women on the move. To celebrate their Middle Eastern customers, the brand has announced the Emirati singer Balqees Fathi as their brand ambassador. “Balqees embodies the MARLI persona; she is independent, accomplished and carefree. Her personality and perseverance inspired this collaboration,” says Maral Artinian, Founder and CEO of MARLI New York. The artist will be wearing MARLI creations throughout the collaboration during all her official appearances. The agreement aims to strengthen market penetration, tap into new segments, create desirability and awareness for the brand and enrich the brand’s connection in the region.