Unveiling the Beauty of Mexico City in Fashion
The Pink-Painted Runway
The square runway was awash in pink, with about 19 tons of pink-painted stones poured into the middle. The custom-made bench seating, accommodating 500 people including actress Meghann Fahy and model Karlie Kloss, also boasted a pink hue. As the sky transformed from sweet, soft blue to sepia, just as the museum's facade was lit up slightly, the show began, creating a truly enchanting atmosphere.This pink palette not only added a touch of vibrancy but also called to mind one of Mexico's most iconic architects, Luis Barragán. It set the stage for a collection that would celebrate the beauty and spirit of Mexico City.
The use of pink was a deliberate choice, as it symbolized the energy and joie de vivre that permeates the city. It was a visual representation of the love letter that the collection was intended to be.
The First Look: Strapless Silk Gown
As Oscar Carrillo's "Tlachinoli" pulsed through the pavilion, the first model emerged in a strapless silk faille ball gown in shades of marigold and fuchsia. Accessorized with matching beaded tassel earrings, this gown exuded the eternally chic vibes of Carolina Herrera's founder while also showcasing the spirited elegance of creative director Wes Gordon.Gordon, who took on the role in 2018, has harnessed his seductive design vernacular to great success. This first look was a testament to his ability to blend tradition with modernity and create timeless pieces.
The colors used in the gown, marigold and fuchsia, were directly pulled from the vibrant local landscape of Mexico City, specifically its sunsets. This connection to the city's natural beauty added an extra layer of significance to the design.
An Embroidered Set: Jewel Tones and Mexican Artisans
The looks that followed were filled with pure, delicious glamour anchored in jewel tones. A beautifully tailored, embroidered rose-hued cropped jacket and miniskirt were among the highlights, along with a set that used the same material but included a balloon-sleeved jacket worn open at the front.Gordon collaborated with four Mexican female artisans on these pieces. Jacqueline España from Tlaxcala crafted the buttons and some of the jewelry, while María de los Ángeles Licona and Virginia Verónica Arce from Tlaxcala worked on the embroideries. Araceli Nibra Matadamas from Oaxaca collaborated with her local artisans to create hand-painted jewelry inspired by jícaras.
This collaboration with Mexican artisans demonstrated a great care and dedication to honoring the local culture. The efforts felt genuine and organic, adding a unique touch to the collection.
Gordon's Commitment to Local Culture
There was a clear emphasis on honoring the local culture in this collection. Seventy percent of the models were Mexican, and the hair and makeup teams were also 100 percent local. This not only showcased the talent of Mexican artists but also added to the authenticity of the show.The collection marked the label's first see-now-buy-now effort and included a new collaboration with Frame. Red high-waisted skinny jeans, skirts, and jean jackets in rich tones were major highlights, further demonstrating Gordon's ability to blend fashion with local culture.
During the finale, the audience's cheers and dancing along to the music added to the sense of joy. It was a celebration of Mexico City and its rich cultural heritage.
After the Show: The Promise of Beauty
After the show ended, the conversation with Gordon lingered. We discussed the importance of beauty, which is so prevalent in Mexico but often overlooked. Gordon's approach is optimistic and effervescent, rooted in the pursuit of beauty.His designs give customers a sense of uninhibited opulence that is both wearable and head-turning. Dressing can be a source of joy, as seen in last night's collection and among the Herrera-heads in the audience.
Gordon believes that "the promise of a pretty dress" is not a shameful thing. His magic lies in creating fantastical, transformative clothing while empowering artisan craftsmanship. Beauty can be contagious, and it has the power to make a positive impact.
By the time we left the museum, it was dark, but the memories of the evening and the beauty of the collection remained. The afterparty in the garden area added to the joy, with people sipping palomas and margaritas and enjoying the city's renowned cuisine. It was a night to remember, a testament to the power of fashion and culture.