AUSTRALIAN sisters Laura and Deanna Fanning were the masterminds behind the AW22 Kiko Kostadinov womenswear collection. The designs are inspired by how femininity has been presented and depicted throughout history with references including Art Deco Movement, folkloric tradition to 1930s high society.
The collection “takes a soft power approach to the feminine binary, as the saccharine sweetness of youth is brought into sharp relief against an undercurrent of dark glamour.” Unexpected contrasting design touches are flawlessly executed in the garments, like the elegantly draped skirts featuring a sash hemline or hitched up by snake-chain jewellery.
An enveloping chocolate brown coast boasts bubble gum pink details and uses a matching brown and pink scarf in place of a collar.
Brand favourites such as the Trivia bag make an appearance but this time covered in glitter – a subtle theme throughout the lineup. A deconstructed, bright blue brushed paisley mohair jumper is paired over a hot pink, brushed paisley mohair dress.
There is no shortage of texture in the collection, from mohair to matte satin slip dresses to shearling outerwear.
As a brand known for their geometrical bags and unusual shoe designs, this collection does not disappoint. Further, it solidifies them as a trendsetter and favourite amongst the young fashion and art crowd.
Fuzzy tinsel opera gloves and Murano glass chokers accessorise the looks. Note: the tiny bows covering the leather, knee-high hybrid boots.
Femininity for decades has invented and deconstructed itself, leaving a long trail of heroines and fashion inspiration behind. Kiko Kostadinov’s AW22 collection is an ode to the diversity of the feminine binary and its many interpretations.
by Jamison Kent