Photo: Filippo Fior / Gorunway.com
Full Show
Review
As the first notes of Conny Spalding’s introduction music echo through the space, a vivid image of her initial encounter with Shanté in “Two Can Play That Game” springs to mind. It’s in this cinematic moment that the muse for Sergio Hudson’s latest collection is crystallized: corporate powerhouses who seamlessly transition from boardroom elegance to after-hours chic. Envision women who embody the spirit of leadership and style, navigating through their day with a sartorial prowess that speaks volumes of their authority and femininity.
The collection, a harmonious blend of professional and playful, is crafted with the “bad, boss bitch” in mind, as Sergio candidly shared with Fashionista.com. It’s not just a collection; it’s a narrative that could easily be woven through the glossy pages of Black Enterprise magazine, where women of substance and style reign supreme.
The tailoring is a nostalgic nod to the 1980s, with broad shoulders, oversized leather pants, and denim vests that echo the sartorial brilliance of that era. However, Sergio doesn’t merely rest on the laurels of these iconic designs; he infuses them with his unique flair, introducing fun pops of coral (Pantone 172c), sequin skirts, and draped off-the-shoulder long-sleeve tops, possibly crafted from a luxurious cotton or silk jersey fabric.
This collection is not merely a tribute to a bygone era but a reimagining of it, intertwining the bold and structured designs of the 1980s with the fluidity and ease of contemporary fashion while tying in the brilliant ease and fluidity of the 70s with the wide belted pleated dresses at the later half the show. It’s a dialogue between the past and present, where the structured tailoring of the suits meets the soft, playful allure of sequins and vibrant colors, offering a versatile wardrobe for the modern, multifaceted woman.
In essence, Sergio Hudson’s collection is a sartorial symphony, where each piece plays a note that is both nostalgic and refreshingly new. It’s a collection that speaks to the women who rule the boardroom by day and light up the room by night, offering them a wardrobe that is as dynamic and adaptable as they are. It’s a celebration of the power, elegance, and playful spirit of women who are unapologetically “bad, boss bitches” in every arena of their lives.
Details We Love
The black mesh gown, adorned with intricate patterns of cranberry sequins, emerged as a pinnacle of craftsmanship and aesthetic appeal in the collection, capturing our sartorial attention and holding it unwaveringly. It wasn’t merely a garment; it was a narrative woven with threads of elegance and meticulous design, telling a story where every sequin was a word and every stitch, a sentence.
The mermaid flair at the knee-length hem introduced a whimsical element to the gown, ensuring that it didn’t just flow but sashayed with the wearer. It added a dimension of movement and fluidity, allowing the gown to transition seamlessly from a statuesque piece to a dynamic ensemble that moved and interacted with the wearer and the space.
The sewing, impeccable in its execution, spoke volumes of the artisanal skill and attention to detail invested in the piece. Each stitch was a commitment to excellence, ensuring that the gown was not just constructed, but sculpted to perfection. It was a piece that didn’t just adhere to the standards of high fashion but sought to redefine them, presenting a garment that was as flawlessly executed as it was imaginatively conceived.
The finale of the show was marked by a brilliant mustard chiffon and satin pleated dress, a piece that not only captivated the audience but also showcased a masterful blend of technical prowess and aesthetic vision. The combination of chiffon and satin is no easy feat, given their distinct textures and the way they interact with light and movement. Yet, it was executed with such finesse, creating a garment that flowed and shimmered with every step, embodying a delicate yet striking elegance.
The technical challenge of marrying these two fabrics was met with a seamless execution, where the chiffon and satin did not just coexist but intertwined to create a harmonious visual and tactile experience. The chiffon brought a light, airy quality, while the satin introduced a luxurious sheen and smoothness. Together, they created a piece that was both ethereal and opulent, dancing between realms of softness and structure, light and depth.
Moreover, the ombre effect on the satin was not merely a detail but a journey in color and transition, adding a dimension that elevated the piece from a dress to a narrative in hues and tones. It provided a visual pathway, guiding the eye along the contours and flows of the garment, ensuring that the complexity and craftsmanship were not just seen but celebrated. It was a fitting conclusion to the show, leaving the audience with a lingering impression of innovative design, meticulous craftsmanship, and a bold yet refined color palette.
“I got my start by giving myself a start!”
Madam C.J. Walker (1917)
Inspiration
