Collina Strada SS24 'Soft is Hard'

Collina Strada sees the world from above. Their collections are like vessels: carrying our trepidations, regrets, mishaps and triumphs. They produce clothes of commentary. Pieces that are tuned in, angry and screaming!

Hillary Taymour, the New York-based designer at the helm of the brand, embraces change as she navigates current affairs. For her ‘soft is hard’ collection, she decided to explore the world of A.I., feeding a generator past collections to create new designs. This technological implementation delineates a shift (or a natural progression?) in fashion. Her choice to extend upon popular pre-existing styles instead of establishing entirely new concepts, pushed beyond the insidiously fast turnover rates of trend cycling.

Larger themes of climate change, inequality and social destruction were made evident with the inclusion of theatrical hair pieces, unsettling smiles, clenched fists and off-kilter makeup. These elements brought an underlying cynicism to our attention: is this a dreamy fairy tale that starts with perfection and ends with reality?

Structurally, each piece in the collection maintained its own unique length and subtle asymmetric trimming, allowing for the soft, thin silk and cotton fabrics to impressively cascade. The combination of ruching, print layering, and lace created the illusion of abundance. This capacity to create texture while maintaining low fabrication counts (the amount of fabric used per garment) is a testament to Taymour’s considered pattern making and sustainable design ethos.

Surprisingly, but perhaps necessary in this economy, the show toned back the otherworldly graphics seen in previous collections. By refining the regalia, Taymour seemed to find the ideal sweet spot between commerce and art. She also maintained the equilibrium between fashion and community, inviting the general public to the show. As we entered the Stradasphere, we were embraced by pure human connection and creativity. Up and away!