THE COHESION AND CONSIDERATION OF PRADA'S FW23 SHOW
Miuccia and Raf’s shared love of art is evident in the masterfully constructed garments that lined the runway for the Prada Fall/Winter 2023 Womenswear Show. The origami inspired shoes are breathtaking and demonstrate great craftsmanship, reminding us that fashion often serves as wearable art. The concept for the collection was titled “Taking Care”, a theme that is conveyed through the reimagination of uniforms typically associated with roles of care and responsibility. White shirt dresses with considered cuts and mini trains transform the traditional nurse’s uniform and serve as a clear representation of the collection’s theme. The intricacy of the fabric floral embellishments which decorate multiple skirts in the collection further allude to this notion of care.
The show took place on the 23rd of February 2023 just one day short of the anniversary of Russia’s invasion into the Ukraine, which is perhaps the reason for the myriad of military motifs in the collection. Army green blouses, shirt dresses and parkers line the runway, however, the most notable of these militaristic motifs is the final song The Blue Danube Waltz by Johann Strauss II. Strauss II was encouraged to compose this tune in 1866 in an effort to elevate the morale amongst Austrians, after they were defeated by Prussia in the Seven Weeks War. This famous waltz introduces some of the final ensembles and is perhaps a commentary on art’s ability to uplift people during difficult times.
This collection is a celebration of the cohesion of Raf and Miuccia’s influences, evident in the soundtrack that accompanies these looks. Electronic ambient music opens the show, incorporating Simons’ love for techno which ultimately led him to fashion, as he spent much of his youth in the techno club scene observing fellow patrons. As the techno reverberates through the Deposito of the Fondazione Prada, a contemporary take on the uniform of wedding dresses enters the runway, as full bodied ivory skirts are paired with minimalist sweaters. Miuccia’s influences then seem to take center stage when the music fades to a 1970s song by Roxy Music and the bolder colours arrive onto the runway including a vibrant red leather skirt suit that serves as the ultimate power look.
This collection goes above and beyond especially when it comes to accessories. The introduction of a new trapezoidal bag is intoxicating and is available in a variety of colours, with some even including an imprinted floral motif to add to their charm. This geometrical bag will no doubt become a new signature handbag for the brand.
See our favorite looks below:
Words by Kat Halpin / More from Prada here
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