New York City: Renowned designer Jonathan Simkhai revealed his latest collection inspired by vintage finds at the Pasadena Rose Bowl flea market, showcasing a blend of modern and historical styles, highlighting sustainability and the emotional narratives behind fashion pieces during a star-studded presentation in Hudson Yards.
The celebrated Pasadena Rose Bowl flea market served as a pivotal inspiration for renowned fashion designer Jonathan Simkhai as he unveiled his latest collection during a show that took place 37 storeys above Hudson Yards in New York City. Known for his vintage treasure hunting, Simkhai arrived at the market before dawn, where he discovered a vintage brooch that captured his imagination. For him, vintage hunting goes beyond mere aesthetics; it encompasses the stories and histories of each piece. “It’s kind of emotional,” he said, reflecting on the experience and adding, “You just can’t help but think, where did these clothes come from? Who was wearing them? What did they go through?”
The live showcase attracted a star-studded audience, including celebrities such as Beanie Feldstein, Tiffany Haddish, Tramell Tillman, Suni Lee, Jenna Lyons, and Helena Christensen. The collection presented a modern interpretation of vintage styles, featuring oversized leather jackets paired with distressed knitwear that offered a sense of history and character. Vintage elements were highlighted through details such as sparkling brooches adorning garments, with one notable piece being a rounded shoulder gray sweater complemented by matching high-cut knitting and a tied belt.
Simkhai’s designs eloquently balanced between polished elegance and a lived-in aesthetic. The collection included a combination of embellished sheer tops, stunning gowns encrusted with crystals, and pieces with a distinctly weathered look, such as loose oversized leather trousers layered over cosy knits, complete with intentional tattering and holes. Outerwear displayed an edginess, showcasing items like a white fringed jacket and a menswear plaid coat adorned with black crystals, styled with robust leather separates and riding boots.
Simkhai described the setting for his collection as a reflection of both contemporary style and historical undertones. The backdrop of New York City at dusk added a layer of significance to the presentation, embodying the themes of strength and resilience that resonate in today’s fashion landscape. “I wanted a raw space that was strong and tough to kind of play with the theme of the collection,” he noted, effectively connecting the audience with the emotional and narrative aspects of the clothing on display.
This collection not only showcased Simkhai’s innovative approach to fashion but also emphasised the significance of sustainable practices such as upcycling and the appreciation of second-hand clothing. By crafting a dialogue around the lives of garments, Simkhai’s work champions the ethos of slow fashion and the reduction of environmental impact, enabling consumers to make purposeful style choices without sacrificing aesthetic appeal.
Source: Noah Wire Services
