Prada has long been a symbol of rich history, consistently reflecting a hint of the past in its various collections. Prada's Summer 2024 release is a broader expression of humanity and life through garments that echo the past while defining Prada's identity today. It is multifaceted, contradictory, and constantly evolving. The apparent simplicity is complex.
Striking Contrast
The collection blends day and night, winter and summer, past and future. The juxtaposition of elegance and sports, a fundamental principle Prada introduced to fashion in the 1990s, inspires pieces that reconsider form and function through embodiment. A suede bikini is proposed, along with a poplin shirt skirt paired with a wool jacket.
Throughout the collection, there is a sense of classicism. The patterns are typical: plaid, geometric foulard designs, stripes, and flowers on transparent nylon. Raincoats, leather biker jackets, and men's tailoring are mixed, with wool flannel as the main fabric. Familiar elements are reprocessed, customized, and transformed.
Heritage of the Past
Echoes of Prada's past are found in the fabrics: woven metallic textiles, jacquard, antique poplin or chiffon and cotton, and the hyper-classic Shetland wool. Nylon bags are adorned with crystal straps, resin is molded into wide chains, and archival Prada handbags are reimagined in colorful nylon. The Paoletto bag from 2000, the original 1984 Prada backpack, and the top-handle design from 1978 (the year Miuccia Prada took over the company) are all reinterpreted. These landmarks join new designs: Prada Arqué and Prada Buckle.
Artisanal Craft
Handicrafts add another layer of humanity, with delicate embroidery, knitting, and raffia crochet in the iconic Prada symbol pattern, expressing the power and honor of handwork. The garments suggest Prada movements: pins as closures on the neck or sleeves, coats fastened with belts, and tied bows. Additionally, they express the joy of dressing, a love for fashion, and quirky elegance.
