Manila, Philippines — Iris van Herpen mesmerized the world with a captivating collection that drew inspiration from the futuristic concept of floating cities and the awe-inspiring realm of bionic design for her Architectonics 2023 Fall Haute Couture collection.
Embarking on a creative odyssey, van Herpen’s visionary journey was ignited by the groundbreaking ideas of Jacques Rougerie, an eminent French Architect and Oceanographer hailed as the ‘Architect of the Sea’. Rougerie’s revolutionary body of work seamlessly merges scientific exploration with architectural innovation, providing profound insights into the intricate interplay between our oceans and the constructed world we inhabit. With his remarkable designs encompassing underwater habitats and floating laboratories, meticulously crafted through the synergy of his marine biology and architectural expertise, Rougerie has become the driving force behind van Herpen’s profound exploration of aquatic urbanism.
The collection also featured captivating ensembles that drew inspiration from the groundbreaking World’s First Floating City known as ‘Oceanix,’ currently under construction in South Korea. This innovative waterborne urban concept, masterfully envisioned by renowned starchitect Bjarke Ingels, left an indelible imprint on the designs.
Oceanix represents a paradigm shift in urban planning, seamlessly integrating zero waste and circular systems, closed-loop water systems, net-zero energy practices, and the regeneration of coastal habitats. As a trailblazing manifestation of this new era of waterborne urbanism, Oceanix served as a wellspring of inspiration for the collection’s diverse aesthetics.
Fueled by relentless research and development, the collection brought to life the principles of parametric architecture known for its fluidity, fragmented elements, and dynamic patterns. The designs exuded a vibrant and kinetic energy, with explosive patterns enveloping the body, fractal forms that mesmerized the eye, and distorted perspectives that boldly pushed the boundaries of traditional fashion.
These innovative influences and avant-garde design elements seamlessly merged within the collection, resulting in an artistic expression that not only showcased Iris van Herpen’s mastery but also served as a testament to the transformative power of visionary architectural concepts.
As a devoted follower and fashion connoisseur of Iris van Herpen, one cannot help but be enthralled by the seamless fusion of artistry and scientific vision that pervades her latest collection.