2020 PFW | Oxford Fashion Studio
Anyone who knows me knows that I like to support all designers on all levels of success and representation, which is why whenever I go to a major fashion week, I love to attend at least one show which features a diverse set of designers which might be underrepresented or up-and-coming. The Oxford Fashion Studio at Paris Fashion Week was just that! It featured 15 different independent designers from 10 different countries. Below are my favorite looks from 4 of those talented designers.
These designers were featured at the Intercontinental Le Grand Hotel’s spectacular ballroom in Paris. The organizers could not have picked a more beautiful venue to showcase their talent It felt grand and complimented all of the collections. I could not wait to see the pieces go down the runway.
Nasheli Juliana | Puerto Rico
Puerto Rican designer Nashili of Netflix’s “Next In Fashion” presented her collection “Appropriation,” inspired by politics, social and religious issues. The collection featured upcycled, organic and recycled fabrics with an emphasis on denim constructed in the most interesting and architecturally structured way. Denim in various hues of blues were paired with cream, and white separates.
I have to say that this collection was my favorite from the whole afternoon! The moment these pieces went down the runway, I wanted every single one of them in my hand right away. They were all my style of clothing and were striking, fashionable yet very wearable.
The above coat stole the show. Simple, yet powerful! I could see anyone wearing this while feeling sexy, sleek, and chic. The over the size style would make all clients comfortable and looking flattering and the color is unique and universal.
HysisDesigns | United States
This Sister Duo Duana and Toni Hyde from Atlanta showcased their custom womenswear couture collection during their Paris debut. The collection “Nouvelle Collection Royale'' consisted of cotton, beading, chiffon, and multi-colored feathers. Bold patterns dominated the collection from a deep royal blue plaid to flirty florals and feathered collars that commanded the runway.
What I loved most about this whole collections is the personality that came with it. Every piece had it’s own unique style with a an edge while the chosen patterns and jewels give them a softness to create a very interesting contract between light and dark.
Moral Standards | Ukraine
Ukrainian designer Olga Ochkas's fashion label “Moral Standards” took guests on a journey through historic volumes, bizarre shapes, Victorian motifs with refreshing twists that felt like neveau fashion for the avant garde chic. High quality couture craftsmanship, careful selection of fabrics and attention to finishing details are hallmarks of the brand. Detailed embroidery, expertly executed ruffles, leather corsets and crystal headpieces were intertwined perfectly.
The designer sought to demonstrate a contrast of looks with bright line of violet floral embroidery, flowing flower white dresses with frills and puff sleeves contrasting black pieces in the collection consisting of of sinister, heavy full-skirted gowns with stone cross embroideries, black lace and laconic cuts. At the same time, this collection is a continuation of the brand’s style – Victorian silhouettes in silks, organza, lace, volume taffeta gowns and a lot of hand work.
Though I don’t see my self wearing any of these looks, I thought they were absolutely stunning! The mix of fabrics, layering, and dark energy work so beautiful together and I can see a lot people obsessing over these outfits! The attention to detail is successfully showcased in this one of a kind magical set!
Pavlina Jauss | Germany
The Bulgarian designer was inspired by the traditions, mythology and history of the various cultures on this planet when creating the collection. The designer’s Hamburg, Germany studio birthed a collection of interesting dresses, separates and jackets with interesting details and the perfect blend of structure and unique draping. The collection “Antitheses” consisted of sustainable handcrafted fashion in fabrics of leather and knitted wool in a earth tone color palette of black, white, mustard, and blue.
What I love about this designer’s style is that it comes off as very simple, yet there are so many little exciting things to see when looking at the outfits. Whether it being the asymmetrical circles in the top photo or the beautiful mesh like skirt with abstract turtleneck in the bottom one, everything is sleek, tasteful, and fun!
Often times people think that attending the big name shows is the best thing a blogger can do, but I think otherwise. Attending those shows is great, but supporting diversity and up-and-coming designers is even greater because it makes us better as a fashion industry as we lift each other up. These types of shows are often the highlights of all of my fashion week trips because I get to see the passion and the birth of new and fresh designs. The best part is that I am supporting them.
The whole afternoon was such a blast! Seeing designers from all around the world, showcased in such a beautiful venue was a dream! I loved seeing all the different takes on fashion and the diversity shining through each of the collections. I am excited to reach out to these designers to buy some of their looks and also see how they progress with their businesses and careers.
