As the Spring/Summer 2024 season in Los Angeles draws to a close, the fashion industry is abuzz with excitement over the remarkable success and the fresh energy infused into the city by the latest shows. This season’s fashion exhibitions and panels, held at Nya Studios in Hollywood, have been nothing short of spectacular, marking a triumphant inaugural event for the new production company, 4Next. This significant milestone not only sets a high standard for future seasons but also cements Los Angeles’ position as a pivotal force in the fashion world.
The designers showcasing their work this season have truly excelled, presenting a fusion of originality and creativity. Contrary to the expected Hollywood-centric fashion, the shows surprised with futuristic elements, sportswear inspirations, and a touch of the macabre. Noteworthy highlights included silhouettes with protruding horns, quiet luxury in beige tones, and sci-fi couture.
Imitation of Christ, opening LA Fashion Week with a performance at The Hole Gallery, showcased a collection centered on peace and understanding, breaking boundaries by combining atelier and public space. This approach, true to its roots as an art collective, signals a commitment to sustainability in fashion’s future.
Lancome partnered with LAFW represents how Beauty and Fashion go hand in hand, showcasing Lancome’s latest in beauty innovations.
Sergio Hudson’s show, with its elegant lounge setup and warm palette, presented a captivating walking art exhibit, blending perfectly with the garments. Meanwhile, Claude Kameni drew inspiration from African prints and cultural influences, creating a bold collection filled with positive vibes.
Bruce Glenn’s vibrant, bold designs in their collection named “Life Lately” were a feast for the eyes, a stark contrast to the usual monochrome fashion. Gypsy Sport celebrated chicana culture and LGBTQ+ representation, electrifying the audience with its 10-year anniversary collection.
Neon Cowboys, in collaboration with the House of Marc Jacobs, transformed the venue into a neon-infused ballroom spectacle, while Luis de Javier’s edgy palette and unique silhouettes brought new life to couture. Demo Baza, who designs the costumes for Dune, stayed true to its roots with a sci-fi fantasy/sandpunk collection. No Sesso reimagined traditional silhouettes, infusing them with practicality while staying true to the brand’s ethos of merging style with utility. A highlight of this approach was the return of the “Carry Bag” on the runway, now presented in two new striking color schemes: Marble Ash and Black Crocodile, exemplifying No Sesso’s dedication to versatility and the seamless integration of fashion and function.
Wearing Demo Baza
The fashion week also featured insightful roundtables and panels, such as the ocean-inspired fashion discussion with SAP SVP Andre Bechtold and Advisry’s lead designer Keith Herron, the Radiant Futures panel, and the XR Frontier panel exploring AI and hypermodernity. The Invisible Beauty Screening with Bethann Hardison was particularly impactful, showcasing her journey as a black female activist and fashion icon.
Stella Maxwell backstage before she closed the Luis de Javier show.
Sibyl Buck wearing the infamous signature silhouette horn dress by Luis de Javier.
This diverse array of designers, exhibitions, panels, and showcases clearly demonstrates Los Angeles’ unwavering commitment to reinvigorating high fashion on the West Coast. While LAFW has made significant strides since its reinvention by Ciarra Pardo and Imad Izemrane, its recognition by the Council of Fashion Designers of America suggests a bright future.
Photographer: Victor Castaneda
Writer: Sarah Wright