Contrary to popular belief, fashion people do eat— — At least many who attended Ellen Hodakova Larsson’s first fashion show in Paris did. There were napkins and forks at every seat; at the end of the show was a multi-layered white chocolate cake that was tucked into after the show by models and guests, some with the cutlery provided, some with their fingers. Why cake? “Well, I think it’s time to celebrate this way of working [handicrafts that make heavy use of existing materials], rather than just seeing the industry as a business,” Larson said. “I think fashion brings joy — that’s why you start doing it, so I really want to bring that feeling back. I’m also proud that we’re actually doing that and that we’ve spent so much time together Doing it, our little team, so the cake is just to celebrate the series.”
Even though she’s only three seasons into her career, But the spring lineup is back to the past. Woven belts are back, but this time they’re used to create “women’s” dresses with hourglass curves. Its seductive undulations contrast with an open look, made from a men’s leather shoe upper with the sturdiness to conform the body to its shape. Another deconstruction of masculinity comes in the restyled and waxed pinstripe skirt suit.
When Larson interacts with vintage clothing, it’s no surprise that time is a recurring theme in her work. Last season, part of it was her use of watches. This season, she abstracted that idea a bit by introducing the subject of her letter writing. To make this a little harsh, she crafts vintage envelopes into dresses and separates, but her message is a powerful and urgent one about focus, focus, and crafting, qualities that seem to be contained in the digital world swimming in the image. Diary writer Larson says the series is “a reflection of the time you give yourself; I see it as a letter I wrote to myself.”
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