In a breathtaking showcase late Thursday at Milan Fashion Week, British designer Peter Hawkings presented his inaugural collection for the esteemed Tom Ford brand. Serving up a masterclass in the blend of elegance and edginess, the collection has set the fashion world abuzz with excitement.
Under the spotlight, the runway transformed into a visual narrative of Hawkings’ inspirations and fashion philosophy. The lineup oozed sophistication, capturing the essence of summer with tailored suits, sensual dresses, and statement accessories.
The collection prominently featured fitted trouser suits, adding a hint of power-dressing that’s both timeless and modern. Complementing these were jackets paired with diminutive, matching shorts that exemplified chic casualness. The allure of the designs wasn’t just confined to the daywear. Evening wear saw a transition into figure-embracing long dresses and audacious short leather ensembles that could make anyone stand out in a crowd.
Velvet, often reserved for colder months, made a surprise appearance in Hawkings’ summer collection. But in his masterful hands, the material seemed light and appropriate for the season. His range of velvet suits, combined with slightly unbuttoned silky shirts, exuded a relaxed yet upscale vibe.
One of the standout elements in the lineup was the incorporation of tassels. Dresses and skirts adorned with tassels swayed with every step the models took, adding a layer of dynamism and playfulness to the sophisticated designs.
But what is a collection without its inspirations? Hawkings’ designs for Summer 2024 draw heavily from the iconic Detroit-born Black supermodel, Donyale Luna. Luna wasn’t just a model; she was an emblem of beauty, art, and culture. As a muse to legendary figures like artist Andy Warhol and the acclaimed photographer Richard Avedon, Luna’s influence in the arts and fashion is undeniable. By channeling her spirit, Hawkings has managed to capture a blend of historical reverence with modern-day fashion trends.
No outfit from the collection would be complete without the curated range of accessories that Hawkings introduced. The show saw a riot of colorful towering stilettos, which seemed to challenge the conventional norms of summer footwear with their audacity. The oversized sunglasses, reminiscent of vintage Hollywood glamour, added an element of mystique and luxury.
It’s been a significant year for Tom Ford, a brand that has long stood as a paragon of luxury fashion. Hawkings’ appointment as the creative director in April marked a new chapter in its illustrious history. He stepped into the shoes of the legendary Tom Ford, who had carved a niche for the brand since its inception in 2005. Ford’s departure to focus on his journey post-Gucci paved the way for Hawkings’ fresh perspective, which is evident in this collection.
In a parallel fashion universe, Gucci, under the umbrella of the French luxury group Kering, is also gearing up to unveil the debut collection of its latest creative director, Sabato De Sarno.
As Milan Fashion Week continues its glamorous saga until Monday, fashion enthusiasts worldwide are left eagerly anticipating what other surprises the event has in store.
READ MORE: