Collina Strada designer Hillary Taymour’s latest Fall/Winter 2024 runway show took attendees through a lesson on women’s strength. At the Rockefeller Center, the show commenced with a punk rock playlist, including a cover of the Spice Girls’ “Wannabe” booming over models in whimsical designs. Orange and brown hues and distorted floral prints on flowing dresses were a steady theme. Popcorn-style knit sweaters and tops over extra short shorts and open button-downs with long ruffled hems were included in the collection. Velvet, sheer, and silk fabrics were the primary source, as well as corset-style tops styled to perfection.
Taymour created the Collina Strada Gym and welcomed every type of woman. She reflected on the effects of women’s bodies being shaped by the male gaze and a man’s imagination, all while women get passed over for power positions in every realm of industries. “It’s about time we re-sculpted that meat-headed vision into something closer to the reality of femininity—something altogether sweatier yet more refined,” the show notes read.
A few models walked with weight props in hand. Motioning exercises in playful ways, one model wore a pink Trompe l’oeil muscle and floral printed top. Silhouettes in the show accentuated the feminine form while celebrating all its shapes and sizes with deadstock fabrics, as Taymour’s brand strongly focuses on sustainability.
The 36-look collection also featured classic UGG boots made from corn leather, which gave a speckled, colorful look. The brand also spotlighted their PUMA X Collina Strada Suede XL Velophasis on the runway- which can be described as boot-shaped and came up past the ankles in muted tones of blue.
As this NYFW commences, we’re taking note of the most show stopping looks that are setting the tone for upcoming trends.
Satin Slips: Look 10
We’re far from springtime, but this blue flowy sundress with its V-neck and fringe hem makes us yearn for the sunny weather. This is a perfect dress to fit in.
Puff Sleeves: Look 12
A puff sleeve is coming back, and Collina Strada did it well. The added texture to the puff sleeve in their designs created a muscle-like effect, keeping the theme of a gym going.
Corset Tops: Look 23
The brand’s take on a classic corset is a refreshing yet simplistic design that’s more boxy at the top with a slightly cinched waist. This highlights, again, the celebration of women’s physiques.
Distorted Florals: Look 24
While floral print might not be everyone’s favorite, Collina Strada opened a new way to sport the trend. Blurred flowers on orange, lime-hued velvet, and satin dresses filled the collection as a nod and reminder that women are stronger than we think.
Trompe l’oeil Details: Look 35
A printed top with a woman’s physique is familiar with pieces like John Paul Gaultier’s, but Collina Strada’s take was a whimsical entry. Your body-printed pieces don’t have to be a replica of a body; you can have fun with it like this rubber iteration and florals printed all over.