OVER the past year, the traditional fashion show has slipped from our hands as we swapped heels for sliders and front rows for sofas. Though the the magic of seeing a collection in person isn’t quite the same, Creative Director Alexandre Mattiussi decided to embrace the change of format and celebrate cinematography for AMI’s AW21 collection.
“I wanted to echo the fashion shows that I followed through my childhood, the period that would later have a huge influence in my decision to become a designer,” explains Mattiussi in his show notes.
Inspired by the fast-paced, glamorous shows of the 90s, Le Défilé, the title of the documentary-like film, recreates the fun atmosphere of the past. Over the nine minutes, director Alvaro Colom takes us from backstage through to the runway. Beginning with an organised frenzy of models with robes, make-up artists and hair-stylists bustling around to perfect the final looks before they are shown, the hidden intimacy of fashion is put on display.
As the venue goes dark, and the music starts, one-by-one the models showcase the autumn-winter 2021 collection. Hands in pockets, smiles and struts make a return as confidence and attitude ooze from the model cast made up from some of the biggest names in fashion today like Adut Akech, Mika Schneider and Fernando Cabral.
Ami, known for creating pieces that suit any style, this season relaxed elegance is presented with block colours, loose-fitting dimensions and tailored garments. Leather jackets, fringed full-length dresses and strong knitwear for both men and women create a balanced collection that fits both night and day, formal and casual.
Each season, Mattiussi continues to bring the je ne sais quoi of Parisian style to us all through his collections at Ami. This was no different, hinting at the glamour we all miss, Ami is giving us a taste of a very promising future.
by Imogen Clark