FOR SPRING-summer 2025, Marco Capaldo brought the heat. Quite literally. Reflecting on the past couple of seasons of 16Arlington collections, the designer has explored the many facets of darkness but now he has emerged into the light.
From the off-set everything seems a little brighter, a little more colourful and a little happier. Booming yellows, crisp burnt oranges and flashes of reds and pinks emerged between the sea of black looks. The mood felt more relaxed – evident in the languid silhouettes that eased down the runway as opaque bold draped dresses and high-collared open shirts nodded to casual holiday spirit.
Crystal embroidered hot pants, printed bikini tops and boiler-suit inspired two-pieces added to the carefree buoyancy of SS25. But don’t be mistaken she is oozing in sensuality with skin always being shown.
Whilst change is always good, Capaldo still brought the classic codes into his sunnier future. The flower pattern found in archival collections found themselves weaved onto the crystal, whether it was a mini dress or sculptured into a hand accessory, and of course, feathers aptly made a return decorating the centre slits of chiffon skirts and also, dip-dyed in fuchsia pink and yellow across the straps of heels.
“I wanted a return to the fun, sexy spirit that 16Arlington has been known for,” finished the creative director. If that was the aim, then he hit bullseye with the utmost precision with SS25.
by Imogen Clark