THREE years ago Christian Cowan graduated from Central Saint Martens and London College of Fashion. And every day since has been a step forward in what can only be described as a journey to fashion stardom. Cowan is a young designer but his singular eye-catching aesthetic has already landed him a spot as a style guru for Hollywood’s elite. He’s dressed everyone from rapper-singer Cardi B to country music icon, Kacey Musgraves.
Despite a buzzing celebrity following and trademark speciality for glitzy rhinestones, 23-year-old Cowan has got every bit of the talent to match all of the hype surrounding him. The evidence? A dazzling fifth NYFW show.
There’s a reason why the clothing from Christian Cowan’s eponymously named label is often associated with the phrase “eye-catching”. Each design is always up in your face and shows a keen desire to take stylistic risks. For SS20, these risks are ultimately rewarded. Cowan satisfies the awaiting audience almost instantly with the dramatic looks he’s garnered a reputation for. Bedazzled rhinestone gowns, checkered combination pieces and exaggerated sleeves are all featured.
Interestingly, Cowan decided to begin his technicolour lit show by debuting a slightly more demure look. Sported by Czech model Karolina Kurkova, the sequined wrap dress featured minimalistic frill and was accompanied by a bedazzled towel-looking headpiece. Sensual and sleek, the combo appeared to imitate a rather fresh from a dip in the ocean look, which could’ve been influenced by Christian Cowan’s early upbringing on the Spanish coast.
Ultra femininity met powerful silhouettes with this collection, proof that Cowan has evolved as a designer in recent years. With SS20, the designer dares to explore complex themes, all the while retaining his soft spot for everything glitter and pomp. The diverse colour palette also showcases Cowans expansion into new territory, featuring his staple love of crimson reds, metallics and popping pinks along with a range of midnight inky blacks, often in the form of leather.
After all, it wouldn’t be a Christian Cowan show if the catwalk wasn’t as star-studded as the audience. Celebrity guest models included actress and singer Keke Palmer, who wore a burgundy off-the shoulder dress with intricately tailored designs. Pop-star Cameron Dallas also made an appearance, donning slick looking leather pants paired with ruby red mesh polo.
by Maria Noyen