For its take on AW24, Paris-based label EgonLab told a perfection-obsessed generation to take a long, hard look in the mirror. Garments peppered with satire sauntered down the spotlighted runway, with otherwise glamorous silhouettes constructed to appear as if they were ripped or clustered. Representing a rebirth of a society broken apart by mirror selfies and bikini pics, the offering was depressing and uplifting in the same breath.
Anchoring itself in the idea of the body being a communicative vessel, each look had an urban, punk-infused edge. By incorporating cuts and slashes into otherwise frothy and delicate-looking garments, the pieces stuck their middle finger up at social media and how it’s forced us to alter the way we look at our bodies. It was enough to make Zuckerberg quake in his boots.
Swollen shoulders and long, pointed collars appeared throughout, emphasising the shapeshifting dysmorphia of trying to achieve the ever-changing beauty standard. Sequins and fringe swung off of a series of structured outerwear pieces, incorporating a romantic splendour in an otherwise bleak societal exploration. Retaining a “fuck you” attitude with silhouettes that unapologetically took up space, the offering also embodied the grit and consciousness championed by the youth of today.
This urge for personal protection and self-care was actualised by a footwear collaboration with UGG and its UGGextreme™ line of boots that are fit for any terrain. By blending leather and traditional resin, the partnership emphasised a blend of function and creativity.
A shrewd commentary on contemporary internet culture, it was enough to make you swear off your socials.
Photography courtesy of EgonLab.
