Piotrek Panszczyk and Beckett Fogg have crafted a runway collection for the ages for Area AW23. Taking on a prehistoric edge with crystallised skulls and hybridised fur, the brand’s latest offerings are indicative of its dedicated cult following and synonymous with its abstract takes on glamour. Presented at the historic Williamsburgh Savings Bank, Area delivers a satirical play on the glamour of survival.
Exploring the sartorial evolution of humankind, Area accessories with the basic means of survival – bones and fur. Throughout the collection, these building blocks are transformed as Area reexamines the growth and cultural significance of wealth and aesthetics.
As a Trompe l’oeil, Area replicates the polarising material of fur, photocopying vintage fur pelts and warp printing the artwork onto denim, fluid crepe viscose and silk jacquard. Draping the fabric into godet-like volumes onto skirts, dresses, and high-octane coats. The signifier of glamour bewitched into double-take garments.
Marrying a craft so primitive with modern approaches, Area explores our prehistoric adornments of jewellery. First crafted from bone, Area renders abstract shapes of bone and adorns them with Swarovski crystals for a modern twist. Crystal Bombé skulls are translated into bracelets, paillette cups on dresses and fully encrusted catsuits, while claws cut through cocktail dresses, suits and distressed denim.
Words by Lily Pattison.
Images courtesy of Area.
