HUSSEIN Chalayan used the concept of the digital age to create the theme for his SS18 collection believing the sense of entitlement that the social media user has contradicts with their measuring of self-worth, also through social media. This creates a despairing individual who relies upon the digital world for confidence while it contributes to their own decline in self-esteem. This rather large, philosophical enquiry was pursued by Chalayan in this collection.
The collection begins with abstract cuts, a muted colour palette – grey, white and beige – and flowing materials. Headscarves cover not just the hair, but the models faces too with dark sunglasses crowning the look. It then progresses into something more futuristic with bold yellow and orange colours, abstract headpieces and fluorescent Swarovski Post-it notes. Tailored suits and one-pieces turn into loose dresses and long-lines.
The choice of venue, Sadler’s Wells Theatre, is apt for the tone of the collection as actors in a theatre are watched by an audience, while models in a show are watched by the crowd. Similar to when one participates in liking, commenting and retweeting on social media. Chalayan uses his clothing designs as a way to not only comment on – pardon the pun – a digital way of life many of us lead, but also as a reaction to this way.
by Emily Harris
Images courtesy of Chalayan