PRADA have long pioneered diversity in the fashion industry, and in their AW18 collection at MFW, they wanted that message to be more powerful than ever. Model Anok Yai – who was scouted after an image of her at Harvard’s Homecoming went viral – opened Prada’s latest collection, being the first black woman to do so since Naomi in ’97, but Prada didn’t stop there. To promote diversity further, 48 models followed Yai down the runway, a third of which being of colour. Not that we weren’t pleased enough with the casting for Prada’s AW18, they also threw in a few familiar faces with some models who have graced Prada’s runways in the past.
The collection transmitted sci-fi vibes throughout, as the audience sat in a darkened room and light reflecting off the perspex floor. The reimagined sounds of Heart of Glass played to us as puffed trench coats and an abundance of neon colours passed by. Abstracted prints and neon colours amplified the futuristic aesthetic the collection, whilst incorporating a sportswear attribute appealing to modern trends. The ‘90s trend is a notable influence also, as micro sunglasses and bucket hats completed various looks.
Feminism is a key factor in the inspiration and development of the collection, Miuccia Prada expertly juxtaposes utilitarian workwear with flamboyant materials alongside feminine silhouettes. Large pockets and decretive nametags amplify the workwear and practicality influence, but the incorporation of bright colours brings a playful edge. A suggestion of inspiration from NASA comes in the form of Prada logos on various garments, synonymous with graphics associated with the organisation. The collection ended with a range of neoprene pullovers in neon colours, suitable for when you’ve got astronaut training at 4PM and your ‘90s rave at 6PM.
by Todd Burns
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