The first impression that the Paola Balzano’s autumn proposal has left is aptly trapped between intriguing and mystical. Entitled "Enigma", the collection brings together the commonalities between the contemporary regal and sorceress aesthetics.
The excessive emphasis was placed on the captivating forms that accentuate a variety of feminine silhouettes in the best possible way. Thus, the superlatives were reached and set immediately at the beginning of the show with the exaggerated structured hood on the fluffy short black coat. The grandiose opening look was followed by a series of egocentric sleeves that added the final touch to the exquisite dresses, blouses and unique blazers/jackets in black, bordeaux and champagne. In the same manner, the designer opted for a few luxurious silky pieces that were cinched at the waist. The pompous attitude of the line-up was retained with the help of the untight hoods that were reminiscent of the most extravagant types of headscarves.
But back to the color palette and prints, the emerald green suit trousers provided just the right amount of vividness. That being said, the oriental ornaments, that adorned the items with kimono sleeves, peplum waists and hyperbolical necklines, bewitched us and lured into the labyrinth of the inspirational botanical world.
Paola Balzano is an Italian/Taiwanese designer based in London. She graduated in Fashion and Costume design at Accademia di Costume e di Moda in Rome in 2010 and continued her studies at Central St Martin’s. Her namesake high-end label was founded in 2012.
April 30, 2014
Beckmans College of Design
Scuola Politecnica di Design
Central Saint Martins
Design Skolen Kolding
LOFT 42
Red Dot design award
