AFTER 14 years transforming Lanvin and bringing it to new heights, Alber Elbaz left the brand in 2015. Having remained in the shadows for over five years, the Israeli fashion designer has made a highly anticipated return to the fashion industry. Launching his own brand, AZ Factory, he wanted to change his approach by focusing on innovation and design.
For his debut collection, Elbaz is laying the foundation of what is to come. Think fashion that is designed and created to be worn with comfort and ease whilst still remaining at the forefront of luxury fashion. Still demonstrating savoir-faire with traditional craftsmanship, the innovation lies in silhouettes, design and fabrics.
Introducing AnatoKnit, a new type of knitwear technology that fuses ENKA® Viscose and Lycra to create a soft, flexible material that can be shaped to support the body. Both comfortable and breathable, it works to enhance the female body’s natural curves to create feminine forms.
The collection reimagines the classic little black dress. One that hugs the body and feels empowering rather than overpowering. This is part of the MyBody range within the collection that uses the benefits of the AnatoKnit to create clothes that can be worn by any body shape and size.
An interesting addition to the collection by Alber Elbaz is the concept of Switchwear. Playful in nature and adapting itself to various situations of daily life, basics are produced with long-sleeve tops, leggings and hoodies making an unusual appearance in a couture collection. But looking at our lives now, there is no glamour or sparkles so Elbaz has created a collection that truly reflects the times we live in.
There may be no typical couture looks or even super extravagance however AZ Factory produced a collection that represented what today’s couture is. It isn’t over-the-top dresses, but wearable clothing for the moments we have outside – not your typical revolution, but it sure has made its mark.
by Imogen ClarkÂ