MODALISBOA SINGULAR: A Comprehensive Overview of Lisbon Fashion Week’s Transformational Impact
In October 2023, the vibrant city of Lisbon hosted a defining moment in the fashion world with MODALISBOA SINGULAR, an illustrious event co-organized with the Municipality of Lisbon. This pivotal gathering extended beyond the traditional confines of a fashion week, reflecting a broad spectrum of creativity, artistic expression, and sustainability in the evolving landscape of modern fashion. The event stood as a testament to the power of fashion as a transformative medium, intertwining art, social discourse, and ecological responsibility.
The festivities commenced with the grand opening of the Portuguese Design Pop-up Store, initiative, located at Locke de Santa Joana that provided a notable platform for local designers to showcase their innovative works. It was a carefully curated space that emphasized Portuguese creativity, craftsmanship, and the burgeoning talent that continues to thrive within the country’s diverse artistic community.
As the official programming rolled out on October 10th at the esteemed MUDE – Design Museum, excitement filled the air. The day kicked off with FAST TALKS, a series of engaging discussions that served to debunk the complexities surrounding the fashion system. Expert panelists navigated through intricate conversations regarding the intersections of fashion with urgent contemporary issues, such as technology, sustainability, and social equity. Opinions and insights shared during these dialogues fostered a rich understanding of the challenges that besiege the industry, establishing a thought-provoking atmosphere that resonated throughout the week.
This theme of introspection and action continued as attendees flocked to witness the inauguration of the exhibition ‘the beat,’ a collaborative endeavor between CITEVE and BCSD Portugal. Now in its second edition, this exhibition emphasized the tangible aspects of sustainability within the fashion industry, showcasing innovative projects that aim to translate theoretical concepts into actionable strategies. This was particularly critical as the global fashion landscape increasingly prioritizes sustainability as a core value.
Thursday also marked a significant return with the WORKSTATION NEW MEDIA project at the National Society of Fine Arts (SNBA). Supported by the Portuguese Republic’s General Directorate of Arts, this initiative showcased a new generation of artists and cutting-edge artistic practices, broadening the lens through which fashion interacts with modern art and media. Audiences were captivated by the fresh perspectives brought by this diverse cohort, reinforcing the importance of cultivation within the realms of design and creativity.
As the week unfolded, Friday’s agenda highlighted the geographical and cultural richness of Lisbon. Beginning at SNBA, the day’s activities swiftly transitioned to the highly anticipated SANGUE NOVO competition at MUDE. This segment, supported by Seaside, provided young designers a crucial opportunity to present their work to a broader audience, fostering a nurturing environment for nascent talent to flourish. The event validated the commitment of MODALISBOA SINGULAR to supporting the next generation of innovators within the fashion sphere.
In an exciting turn of events, Friday also featured the unveiling of João Magalhães’s COMETA 10, a vibrant cultural space that showcased an artistic installation crafted by the designer himself. This creative endeavor provided audiences with an immersive experience that encouraged interaction with the artist’s vision.
Simultaneously, emerging designer Constança Entrudo presented her latest collection, which also gathered significant attention, adding to the eclectic fabric of presentations throughout the day – S.O.S. – A Mesmerizing Dive into Well-Being and Aesthetic Excellence
Constança Entrudo’s SS25 collection, titled “S.O.S.,” masterfully captures the essence of well-being through a playful yet profound lens. With an inviting escape into an idyllic holiday scene of sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, Entrudo invites her audience to experience a collection that celebrates both comfort and movement.
The collection showcases a stunning transformation of holiday cotton-striped shirts and dresses into buoyant, bubble-hemmed garments that evoke the reassuring safety of a lifesaving ring. Each piece harmonizes playful volume with the elasticity of fabrics, offering wearers an unparalleled sense of freedom and security—a true embodiment of the lightness and buoyancy one seeks in their pursuit of well-being.
Taking inspiration from the vibrant underwater world of the Cambrian Period, Entrudo’s collection is not just about aesthetics; it is a journey into Earth’s history, enriched by prints derived from intricately collaged pages of a vintage 1950s LIFE magazine. These prints artfully feature extinct sea species, inviting viewers to explore a fantastical realm that is both educational and beautifully designed. Materials transform into illusions, with denim that resembles torn paper and knits mimicking the textures of poplin, skillfully blending creativity with intellectual engagement.
The signature colorful striped patterns emerge prominently in this collection, rendered on handmade “unwoven fabrics,” denim, and crepe, giving each piece a distinctive 3D quality that underscores Entrudo’s innovative design approach. As always, her choice of fabrics speaks volumes; Merino wool mixed with delicate knits offers both comfort and elegance, while her signature bonded colorful yarns—though delicate to the eye—exemplify strength through cutting-edge weaving techniques.
Completing this extraordinary array of materials are fuzzy mohair and premium brushed flannel, which infuse a luxurious feel and a tactile richness into the garments. The collection beautifully highlights the body, incorporating classic ruched knits and swimwear that blend seamlessly with feminine lace elements, reintroducing touches of intricate elegance throughout.
“S.O.S.” stands out as more than just a fashion collection; it represents a thoughtful exploration of the modern-day pursuit of well-being and perfection. In an age dominated by digital distractions, Entrudo delivers a poignant reminder that comfort, creativity, and connection to our natural surroundings can inspire a deeper sense of fulfillment. This collection is not only a celebration of style but also a vibrant call to embrace the joy of living fully and freely.
The evening culminated with the unveiling of ‘ALL LOVE LETTERS ARE RIDICULOUS,’ an intriguing exhibition and performance by João Telmo at Palácio Chiado. This exhibition provided attendees the unique opportunity to engage with compelling conceptual art that challenged conventional narratives surrounding love and relationships, further enriching the cultural landscape of MODALISBOA.
Saturday marked another high point, beginning with ‘Portuguese Soul’ by APICCAPS, which invited the Lisboa Fashion Week audience to immerse themselves in HAVAS Village’s creative atmosphere. Here, the participatory nature of the event became ever more apparent, as diverse collections were presented against the backdrop of innovative storytelling and artistic exploration. Following this lively opening, the focus shifted to Sala do Risco at Pátio da Galé, where a dynamic convergence of fashion shows, artistic happenings, and influential launches created an electric environment, punctuated by discussions of identity and individuality represented through fashion.
PORTUGUESE SOUL – SS25 – The Story of Singular Craftsmanship in Portuguese Footwear
In every leather shoe lies a unique story, crafted by skilled hands that embody the knowledge of generations. This collection rejects mass production, emphasizing individuality and timeless quality—each pair deeply rooted in Portugal’s essence where design is not merely physical but a part of one’s identity. With attention to detail and a commitment to exceptional craftsmanship, SINGULAR signals the essence of the new Portuguese Soul presentation organized by APICCAPS in collaboration with ModaLisboa and supported by PRR through the BioShoes4all project.
The showcase features brands such as Ambitious, Carlos Santos, Leather Goods by Belcinto, Miguel Vieira, Sanjo, Penha, Valuni, and Tatuaggi—all exemplifying the artistry and character of Portuguese footwear. The presentation will be further enriched by a captivating performance from pianist Máximo Francisco, the creator of MALHA, the soundtrack for the MODALISBOA SINGULAR campaign.
Among the standout presentations was the GREEN CIRCLE X BEAT fashion show, powered by CITEVE. This showcase encapsulated the event’s commitment to environmental consciousness by presenting collections that highlighted significant technological advancements in the textile industry, emphasizing responsible production and the promotion of a circular economy. The confluence of creativity and sustainability represented a forward-thinking approach that not only celebrated fashion’s artistic merits but also addressed pressing ecological concerns.
Throughout the four days of remarkable programming across the city’s renowned venues, MODALISBOA SINGULAR emerged not only as a fashion event but as a vibrant cultural hub reflecting the transformative relationships between fashion, urban life, and artistic expression. Each installation, presentation, and discussion contributed to a critical dialogue about adaptation and evolution within the fashion industry.
In the weeks that followed, ModaLisboa promised to unveil further programming designed to energize and mobilize the Lisboa Fashion Week community around critical themes, including Sustainability, Craftsmanship, and Digitalization. A pivotal moment arose on October 11th, when the fledgling contestants of the SANGUE NOVO competition made their anticipated debut at MUDE. This milestone marked a significant moment in the careers of ten aspiring designers, offering their first chance to engage directly with a captivated audience.
The fashion showcase fostered an environment where innovation reigned supreme, featuring collections that harnessed cutting-edge digital techniques and artificial manufacturing processes to navigate the nexus between technology and sustainable practices. Emerging designers pushed beyond traditional boundaries, employing experimental materials and silhouettes that dazzled the senses while engaging in broader discussions about challenging gender roles, societal norms, and the future of fashion.
As part of the SANGUE NOVO competition, each collection was intricately developed using materials sourced from key partnerships established by Associação ModaLisboa, highlighting collaborations with influential textile manufacturers, such as Calvelex/Fabrics4Fashion, RDD Textiles, and Riopele. Furthermore, an exciting new partnership emerged with Jean Louis David, who brought competence in styling to the models, ensuring that the visual presentation harmonized perfectly with the overarching aesthetic of each collection. Hair styling products used were supplied by L’Oréal Professionnel, enriching the presentation’s innovative spirit.
As the fashion show drew to a close, the excitement crescendoed with the announcement of five finalists from the SANGUE NOVO competition, each of whom would now gear up to compete for prestigious awards at subsequent ModaLisboa events in March 2025. These awards included valuable opportunities for furthering their careers, such as a scholarship for a Master’s in Fashion Brand Management at IED Firenze and cash prizes aimed at supporting the development of new collections.
SANGUE NOVO
SS25 – Dri Martins: A Visionary in Sustainable 3D Fashion
Dri Martins, hailing from Porto and armed with a BA in Fashion Design from ESMOD Paris, merges her passion for art and performance with cutting-edge 3D technology in her work. This innovative approach challenges traditional concepts of sustainable fashion, aiming to reimagine its future.
In her collection “Tal Ingenuidade,” Martins observes a world where nature is often overshadowed by urban landscapes. She advocates for a harmonious coexistence between industrialization and nature, envisioning a reality where the two are intricately intertwined. Her designs reflect this philosophy, blending plastic with organic forms to critique and transform our relationship with the environment.
“Tal Ingenuidade” is a transformative commentary on how we perceive nature—not as separate from progress, but as an integral part of our built environment. By fully integrating 3D elements into her garments and accessories, Martins presents a personal and innovative vision for a sustainable future in fashion.
SS25 – Duarte Vaz Jorge: The Poetic Fusion of Fashion and Mythology
Duarte Vaz Jorge, a promising fashion designer from Lisbon, harnesses his artistic curiosity through his education at António Arroio Art School and the Escola Superior de Artes Aplicadas (ESART), where he is currently pursuing a Master’s in Fashion and Textile Design. His work merges bold, sustainable aesthetics with a striking black-and-white color palette.
In his collection “Tiangou,” Vaz Jorge draws inspiration from Chinese shadow theater and the mythic entity that devours the moon. This concept is artistically expressed through the collection’s fabric choices and silhouettes, which play with themes of light and shadow.
The garments’ distorted shapes evoke the mysterious essence of Tiangou, inviting viewers to imagine glimpses of beauty in darkness. As the collection unfolds toward a total eclipse, the designs maintain a sense of intrigue, emphasizing only the silhouettes as light fades. Notably, Vaz Jorge’s commitment to sustainability is evident in his choice of eco-friendly materials like Piñatex, reflecting both creativity and responsibility in modern fashion.
SS25 – Francisca Nabinho: A Poetic Exploration of Time and Nature in Fashion
Francisca Nabinho, a Lisbon-based designer, combines her background in Communication Design and Art History from Universidade Nova de Lisboa with her current pursuit of a Master’s in Fashion Design at the Faculty of Architecture (UL). Her experiences, including time spent studying in Italy and interning with The Garment and Designers Remix in Copenhagen, inform her distinctive vision.
In her collection “Vagar,” Nabinho invites us to reconsider the pace of contemporary life and the significance of time in fashion. Translating to “slowness,” “Vagar” embodies the essence of enjoyment—taking the time to wander, appreciate, and engage deeply with one’s surroundings.
Emphasizing sustainability, Nabinho employs labor-intensive techniques that reflect the ethos of “vagar.” From cultivating salt crystals to impart a natural shine to her garments, to hand weaving and utilizing knitwear that minimizes waste, she champions practices that honor artisanal craftsmanship. The collection features forms, colors, and materials inspired by the sea, echoing the unhurried nature of the creative process.
“Vagar” stands out as a celebration of creativity, sustainability, and innovation, characterized by meticulous design, thorough research, and a thoughtful selection of materials and silhouettes. Nabinho’s work resonates strongly in today’s fast-paced world, reminding us of the beauty found in slowing down and savoring every moment.
SS25 – Gabriel Silva Barros: Redefining Menswear Through Fantasy
Gabriel Silva Barros, a Madeira Island native and graduate of Central Saint Martins and the University of Westminster, blends eclectic influences to create dynamic, unconventional silhouettes. With experience at Palmer//Harding and Vivienne Westwood, he aims to challenge gender norms and promote inclusivity in menswear.
His collection “Masquerade at the Gentlemen’s Club” draws inspiration from surrealism and theatricality, merging whimsical elements with folk traditions. Evoking the spirit of 1920s cabaret, it challenges stereotypical masculinity and embraces fluidity. Envisioning Madeira as a modern-day Neverland, the aesthetic reflects opulence and eccentricity, inviting viewers into a fantastical world of rich textures and intricate detailing.
SS25 – Gonçalo Quelhas de Oliveira: Architectural Whimsy in Fashion Design
Gonçalo Quelhas de Oliveira, born in Porto in 1994, initially graduated in Architecture from the University of Porto. However, the pandemic inspired him to pursue fashion design at Modatex Porto. His architectural background, combined with his passion for dance, drag, and fantasy, infuses a sense of whimsy and gender fluidity into his work, influenced by global travels and Japanese culture.
His collection “Paper Models” embodies a return to basics, drawing inspiration from Louis Khan’s architectural principles in both shape and color. It transforms the concept of architectural models into playful origami-like garments, resembling paper sculptures and puzzles. By focusing on innovative pattern-making techniques, Gonçalo aims to rethink design processes as a means to reduce textile waste while blending a conceptual approach with playful creativity.
SS25 – Ihanny Luquessa: The Intersection of Silence, Identity, and Fashion
Ihanny Luquessa, originally from Angola, moved to Portugal in 2020 to pursue his artistic vision and graduated in Fashion Design from ETIC. His work embodies a bold, experimental exploration of form, where traditional garments are deconstructed and reimagined with limitless creativity.
His latest collection, “Silence,” delves into the profound themes of meditation, mortality, and emotional introspection. Luquessa reflects on the moments of profound quietness and ego dissolution, personifying his thoughts and experiences as a Black African man. Through this collection, he seeks to express his journey and identity, applying color as a means to craft a narrative that resonates like poetry or music, ultimately striving to convey the depth of human experience through fashion.
SS25 – Inês Arthayett: A Journey of Transformation and Sustainability
Inês Arthayett, hailing from Porto and raised in a family of artists, has always been immersed in the world of creativity. She graduated in Fashion Design from Modatex Porto, where she honed her visual and artistic identity. Inês’s work frequently tackles societal themes and human behaviors, intertwining them with nature and spirituality. Through satire, she deconstructs taboos and employs deadstock materials to promote sustainability, emphasizing transparency and softness in her designs.
Her collection “NUA i CRUA” centers on storytelling, depicting a character who experiences an epiphany about the superficiality of physical existence. This introspective journey leads her to explore the interconnectedness of all beings in the universe, moving beyond societal norms and low energy vibrations. The narrative culminates in a spiritual awakening where she recognizes the physical body as merely a shell, capable of transmutation into energy. Alongside this profound narrative, the collection’s aesthetic is visually striking and enigmatic, utilizing irony and critique to underscore the character’s detachment from societal expectations.
SS25 – Manuel Pinheiro Torres: Celebrating Culture Through Fashion
Manuel Pinheiro Torres, originally from Porto, graduated in Fashion Design from ESAD in Matosinhos, and in 2023, he participated in the Erasmus program in Granada, Spain. His personal project, Lolo, merges the functionality of uniforms with the comfort of everyday clothing.
The collection “Lolo 1.0” draws inspiration from his experiences in Granada, emphasizing cultural appreciation for Spanish heritage. Utilizing the colors of the Portuguese flag as a starting palette, Manuel organically expanded it to include red, yellow, and green. This collection symbolizes friendship, diversity, and his encounters in Granada, reinterpreting utilitarian clothing with an elevated and playful twist.
SS25 – Toque Amargo: Embracing Emotion Through Handmade Fashion
Founded in 2023 by designers Júlia Lopes and Matilde Ramos, Toque Amargo emerged from their shared experiences in the Fashion Design course at Modatex Porto. The project centers on creating handmade clothing that reflects the designers’ emotions and experiences, translating their bitternesses into a textile and visual language.
The collection “The First Taste” is deeply influenced by the sensory details of their formative experiences. Drawing inspiration from fruits, scents, textures of carpets and flowers, as well as the interplay of light and shadow in daily life, Júlia and Matilde explore the impact of their roots and traditions—elements that fade like heartbreak. They reclaim and cherish traditional handmade techniques, reimagining inherited materials.
The collection captures flavor through intricate crochet textures, knitting, yarns, and beads, evoking memories tied to familiar scents and tastes. Each piece serves as a sensory journey, connecting past experiences and emotions, allowing wearable art to transport wearers back to the moments that shaped them.
SS25 – VOID: The Art of Fashion and Storytelling
VOID is a unique fashion brand that emphasizes the power of storytelling in each collection, allowing the garments and their narratives to take center stage. With no face or singular identity representing the brand, VOID focuses on the artistry and craftsmanship of fashion, embodying a philosophy that prioritizes the art itself. All VOID products are crafted in Portugal from high-quality fabrics, featuring innovative digital printing techniques.
The collection “PORTA 19” emerges from an intriguing narrative, hinting at a potential data leak from its creative director. This collection introduces faces printed across garments in various scales, creating a sense of balance and harmony. Additionally, the use of encrypted information and graphic compositions on materials like denim, satin, lycra, and jersey adds layers of meaning to the pieces.
Questions arise from the visual language of the collection: Do the black and white photographs hint at a past or a narrative? Has VOID itself emerged from a deeper story? Is the brand a product of human creativity or artificial intelligence?
Reflecting an urban style and gender-fluid streetwear silhouettes, “PORTA 19” showcases neutral colors and combines fluidity with structured elements and drapery. Despite the enigmatic absence of a defined identity, VOID conveys a sense of depth and belonging—a notion that its creative direction is rooted in a real story of love, suggesting that VOID possesses a soul.
Through its thoughtful programming and commitment to nurturing emerging talents, MODALISBOA SINGULAR effectively underscored the vital role of fashion as both an art form and an avenue for social critique. The event not only celebrated the intersection of creativity and sustainability but also virtue in a time of rapid change. As industry leaders and budding designers alike took to the stage, MODALISBOA SINGULAR left an indelible mark on Lisbon’s cultural fabric, setting the groundwork for future dialogues around the evolution of fashion in the context of sustainability and responsible production practices.
SS25 by ARNDES: A Collection Inspired by the Art of “Collecting”
ARNDES’ SS25 collection, aptly titled Collecting, offers a captivating exploration of the practice of gathering and preserving items of personal and cultural significance. Through meticulously crafted garments and accessories, the brand beautifully intertwines individual passions with broader historical narratives.
Each piece in the collection tells a unique story, celebrating not just the act of collecting as a hobby but elevating it to an art form that reflects identity and heritage. The designs resonate with themes of personal expression, inviting wearers to connect their own journeys with the narratives woven into the fabric.
Overall, SS25 by ARNDES masterfully showcases how collecting transcends mere accumulation, serving as a profound means of storytelling and a deep connection to the past. This collection leaves a lasting impression, embodying the spirit of craftsmanship and creative expression in contemporary fashion.
SS25 by Bárbara Atanásio: EGRÉGIOS AVÓS – A Tapestry of Heritage and Modernity
Bárbara Atanásio’s SS25 collection, EGRÉGIOS AVÓS, artfully navigates the intricate relationship between heritage and contemporary identity. Drawing inspiration from the deep-rooted significance of family names and the collective experiences they represent, the collection evokes a sense of nostalgia while reflecting the complexities of modern life.
Atanásio masterfully juxtaposes the traditional with the modern, illustrating how these elements can coexist harmoniously. Each piece serves as a self-portrait of a plural identity, embodying the timeless saga of individuals shaped by both their heritage and their own rebellious instincts.
In EGRÉGIOS AVÓS, Atanásio not only honors the past but also positions it as a foundation for future expressions. The collection highlights the beauty of embracing one’s roots while forging a new path, resonating with those who celebrate their history while simultaneously carving out their identities in the ever-evolving landscape of fashion.
SS25 by BÉHEN: A Provocative Ode to Heritage and Craftsmanship in ‘You’re Mean’
BÉHEN’s SS25 collection, titled You’re Mean, emerges as a vibrant response to the brand’s previous offering, ‘I Don’t Want You’ from AW24. Drawing inspiration from a traditional Portuguese plate featuring the phrase “És má” (“You’re mean”), this collection embodies a spirited dialogue through its fusion of past and present influences, while maintaining an unmistakable sense of humor.
The collection channels the light-hearted yet provocative spirit embodied in the phrase, likening it to the emotional complexities often found in relationships—where tenderness meets mockery. BÉHEN artfully contrasts this with traditional Portuguese motifs like the beloved kisses from local pastries, underscoring the brand’s commitment to ethnographic research and cultural heritage.
Central to You’re Mean is BÉHEN’s innovative approach to textile manipulation combined with a responsible ethos of upcycling. Utilizing natural fibers such as cotton and linen, the brand emphasizes both sustainability and craftsmanship—the latter reinforced by the intimate work done within their Lisbon studio, where much of the embroidery and design takes shape.
In collaboration with a network of skilled artisans and manufacturers across Portugal, BÉHEN maintains a standard of exceptional quality, weaving together traditional craftsmanship with contemporary aesthetics. This collection thus becomes more than just clothing; it is a narrative of cultural reverence and a testament to the complexities of emotion, encapsulating a sense of identity that is as intricate as the embroidery adorning each piece.
In You’re Mean, BÉHEN not only creates fashion that reflects the beauty and fragility of human relationships but also champions sustainable practices, reaffirming their role as a forward-thinking brand committed to both artistry and ethical production.
SS25 by THE BALLAD OF X: A Provocative Journey Through Emotion and Reflection
THE BALLAD OF X presents an avant-garde SS25 collection that weaves a rich tapestry of imagery and emotion. The collection captures a surreal essence, evoking the kitschy allure of a glamorous curtain revealing the untamed expanses of life.
The pieces challenge norms, urging wearers to embrace their inner punk spirit while navigating the complexities of identity and self-expression. Lines like “Let X=X” invite playful introspection, while themes of nostalgia emerge through references to the digital age—reminding us of our longing for connection amid a landscape filled with “black oil” and cinematic memories.
The striking contrasts in the collection speak to the dichotomy of emotions. From the rebellious to the tender, the designs mirror a journey through memory and desire, encapsulated in metaphors like “light my fire” and the struggle against a metaphorical “closed door.” This notion of freedom versus confinement resonates deeply, while the character of “Lady Piano” echoes sentiments of resilience and exploration.
Through innovative materials and creative expression, THE BALLAD OF X crafts a collection that invites wearers to unlock their own narratives, offering an open dialogue about the complexities of life and art. With a blend of rebellion and introspection, this collection stands as a testament to the power of fashion as a medium for emotional exploration and personal storytelling.
SS25 by HIBU Studio: A Nostalgic Reinvention of Essentials
HIBU Studio’s SS25 collection embarks on an evocative journey of redefinition, focusing on the essence of timeless basics while infusing them with a contemporary twist. The collection artfully combines classic silhouettes with unique details and distinct 90s aesthetics, creating a line that resonates with nostalgia while firmly grounding itself in modern versatility.
Drawing inspiration from the Modern Cholas subculture of 1990s New Mexico, HIBU Studio captures the spirit of this influential movement, celebrating both its cultural significance and its bold style. Each piece reflects a thoughtful balance between past and present, inviting wearers to explore their own identities through fashion that is as enduring as it is stylish.
The material selection for this collection highlights HIBU Studio’s commitment to quality and comfort, featuring a rich array of fabrics such as cotton, faux fur, jersey, denim, knit, wool, and leather. This thoughtful blend not only enhances the comfort and wearability of each piece but also underscores the brand’s dedication to crafting versatile garments suitable for diverse occasions.
Ultimately, HIBU Studio’s SS25 collection is a celebration of style across generations. By elevating essential concepts and embracing the complexities of nostalgia, the collection offers a refreshing perspective on modern dressing—one that honors the past while looking boldly toward the future. Wearers can expect to find pieces that not only stand the test of time but also adapt elegantly to the ever-changing landscape of fashion.
SS25 by Lidija Kolovrat: A Personal Odyssey Through Portuguese Influence
Lidija Kolovrat’s SS25 collection emerges as a poignant reflection of her thirty-year journey within the cultural tapestry of Portugal. Through this collection, Kolovrat unveils how her experiences—marked by a blend of acceptance and rejection—have shaped her as a designer and artist, resulting in a rich and evocative artistic vocabulary.
The garments resonate with a wide array of emotions, capturing the duality of Kolovrat’s relationship with Portugal. Her work oscillates between feelings of nostalgia and introspection, revealing a history imbued with happiness, both drawn from real life and imagined narratives. This emotional complexity is central to her creative process, allowing her to weave personal stories into the fabric of her designs.
To visually communicate this evolution, Kolovrat employs an axis of dual dimensions, utilizing large flat shapes and structures that evoke a sense of vibrational energy akin to the haunting melodies of Fado music. Much like the soulful tunes that express longing and melancholy, her collection speaks volumes about her journey, capturing the essence of a deeply felt connection to place.
Each piece serves as a testament to Kolovrat’s artistic exploration, inviting wearers to engage with the layered meanings behind the designs. In essence, this collection not only showcases Kolovrat’s technical prowess but also stands as a tribute to her emotional landscape, reflecting a deep-seated relationship with Portugal that is as complex as it is beautiful. Through SS25, Kolovrat invites us to share in her journey, celebrating both the joys and the tensions that come with a life immersed in culture and creativity.
SS25 – MESTRE STUDIO – BEFORE YOU FORGET ME: A Wearable Ode to Memory and Legacy
The SS25 collection titled “Before You Forget Me” draws deeply on personal and poignant themes, inspired by a photograph of the same name by Adelaide Khaled. This evocative image captures the designer’s grandparents in a moment of togetherness, serving as a bittersweet reminder of love overshadowed by Alzheimer’s—a condition that erases memories and blurs identities.
This collection beautifully explores the dichotomy of “before” and “after,” navigating the emotional landscape of loss and remembrance. It prompts us to reflect on the moments we hold close when faced with the inevitability of forgetting. The designer guides us through a journey into the past, urging us to open the old wardrobe doors and revisit the textiles of our memories—such as moth-eaten knitted cardigans and dust-covered heirlooms steeped in familial history.
Each garment becomes a vessel for nostalgia, evoking the tactile presence of cherished items: the faint scent of lavender clinging to wool, the familiar jingling of buttons stored in an old cookie tin, and the warm sun-glinted gold of a vintage Singer sewing machine by a sunroom window. These tactile experiences are brought to life through the thoughtful design of the collection, merging clothing with storytelling in a way that honors those we have lost and celebrates those who remain.
“Before You Forget Me” serves not only as an homage to loved ones who have passed but also as a tribute to the living, reminiscent of the sentiments that linger in our memories. The collection eloquently expresses a promise: “I won’t forget you.” This SS25 line is more than fashion; it is a heartfelt narrative woven through fabric, reminding us that our stories—our cherished memories—are imprinted in every thread, waiting to be embraced once more.
SS25 – DUARTEHAJIME – MYTHOLOGICAL: A Journey Through Belief and Culture
In the SS25 collection titled “MYTHOLOGICAL,” DuarteHajime embarks on a captivating exploration into the realm of belief—specifically, the intangible and divine connections that have shaped human narratives throughout history. By delving into the origins of myths, the collection draws upon the rich tapestry of East Asian mythology, illuminating the stories that have captured the imaginations of countless generations.
At the heart of this collection lies an intricate homage to the Four Celestial Emblems, or auspicious beasts, which occupy a significant place in folklore and symbolism across cultures. From the majestic Azure Dragon (Seiryu) of the East to the fierce White Tiger (Byakko) of the West, the enigmatic Black Tortoise (Genbu) of the North, and the mythical Vermilion Bird (Suzaku) of the South, each guardian represents profound concepts of balance, the elements, and the changing seasons.
DuarteHajime intertwines these mythical creatures with modern urban aesthetics, taking their vibrant colors and symbolisms and translating them into contemporary fashion pieces. The collection features a carefully curated selection of materials, including cottons and linens, along with three exclusive prints that embody the essence of these guardians, making the myths accessible to the streets of today.
The amalgamation of myth and urbanity in “MYTHOLOGICAL” speaks to the brand’s innovative spirit, allowing wearers to not only engage with the symbolism of these powerful creatures but also to embody their stories as they move through the world. The collaboration with Albano Morgado, SA, Troficolor, and RBD.APP Arquitectos Lda showcases a multidisciplinary approach, enhancing the narrative depth of the collection.
Accompanied by the rhythm of Pepperoni Passion, the collection invites us to embrace the stories and beliefs that connect us to something larger than ourselves. In SS25 – MYTHOLOGICAL, DuarteHajime celebrates the enduring power of myth, reminding us that even in our fast-paced modern lives, the tales of the past continue to resonate, inspiring us to seek balance and harmony in our own journeys.
SS25 – RICARDO ANDREZ – “AND SUDDENLY, YOUR SCROLL DOWN IS OVER”: A Call for Authenticity in Fashion
In an era saturated with imagery and relentless information flow, Andrez’s Spring/Summer 25 collection, “AND SUDDENLY, YOUR SCROLL DOWN IS OVER,” emerges as a refreshing proclamation of authenticity and relevance in fashion. This collection is not merely about clothing; it represents a desire to transcend the excesses of a digital world dominated by fleeting trends and superficiality.
Andrez seeks to present garments that resonate in a genuine way, employing vibrant solar palettes that evoke positivity and energy. The vision embraces a functional and sustainable approach to fashion, emphasizing the importance of utility and craftsmanship. The designer’s commitment to creating artisanal and tactile pieces is evident in the reimagining of classic styles—each article of clothing thoughtfully designed to enhance both aesthetic appeal and practicality.
In this collection, there is an underlying ethos: a recognition that clothing should be valued for its worth and significance. Andrez eloquently states, “We are not a brand. We are not a company. We are human beings.” This sentiment reinforces a shift in perspective, encouraging consumers to appreciate the human stories behind each garment and the meticulous processes that bring them to life.
As styles and trends continually ebb and flow, Andrez reminds us that fashion is intrinsically linked to our lives—a reflection of our experiences and evolving selves. The collection invites wearers to break free from the fast-paced consumption of fast fashion and instead embrace pieces that offer lasting value and meaning.
“AND SUDDENLY, YOUR SCROLL DOWN IS OVER” challenges us to pause, appreciate, and engage with what truly matters in clothing: authenticity, sustainability, and a connection to our shared humanity. In a world that is ever-changing, this collection stands as a beacon for thoughtful consumption, where clothing becomes a canvas for personal expression and a testament to enduring style.
The transformative impact of MODALISBOA SINGULAR underscored the importance of ongoing collaboration, support, and innovation within the fashion industry, reinforcing the belief that style and sustainability can, and must, coexist harmoniously in the pursuit of a better future for both the planet and its people.
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