Text: Sophie Marie Rendon
Acne Studios presented an intriguing collection for Spring-Summer 2025, masterfully blending domestic themes with surreal innovation. Creative Director Jonny Johansson collaborated with visual artist Jonathan Lyndon Chase, creating a runway experience that felt both inviting and otherworldly. Guests stepped into a setting that blurred the lines between home comfort and fashion, prompting us to reconsider how we connect our personal lives to what we wear.
Johansson's inspiration stemmed from the idea of translating domestic codes into fashion. He described the collection as a peek behind closed doors, featuring familiar yet twisted elements like draped curtains and waxed tablecloths transformed into striking garments. The silhouettes were bold and unconventional, with trousers that ballooned at the hips and oversized blazers that played with proportions, pushing the envelope on traditional tailoring.
The color palette leaned towards muted tones—beige, grey, and soft blue—setting a calm foundation for more adventurous pieces that emerged throughout the show. Textures took center stage, with foam-bonded denim and rich leathers offering comfort while challenging conventional style boundaries. Accessories caught the eye with their exaggerated designs, including peep-toe pumps in mock-croc and nappa leathers, as well as Swarovski crystal-adorned ballet flats that added a touch of glamour.
Themes of comfort and vulnerability ran deep within the collection. The show opened with a sleek beige ensemble that soon gave way to puffed-up tailoring, including an inflated gray suit that hinted at playful creativity. Sculpted jeans and skirts infused a sense of whimsy while retaining an air of sophistication, reminding us that fashion can be both fun and refined.
Chase’s installation transformed the venue into a cozy yet imaginative living room filled with soft sculptures and everyday objects. This artistic backdrop enriched the collection’s commentary on identity and the complex interplay between our public and private lives. The setting encouraged attendees to rethink their relationship with the concept of home, prompting reflections on how our surroundings influence our style choices.
As the show progressed, models showcased an engaging mix of patterns and asymmetrical styling that felt spontaneous and creative. This approach resonated with the audience, inviting wearers to experiment with their wardrobes and embrace the spirit of playful dress-up. It was a refreshing reminder that fashion doesn’t always have to be serious; it can also be an expression of joy and individuality.
In essence, Acne Studios' SS25 collection distinguished itself through its boldness and originality. By subverting familiar elements, Johansson sparked a conversation about personal expression and the ways we define ourselves through clothing. This collection is a clarion call to embrace our unique styles and challenge the constraints of trends that often dominate the fashion landscape. It encourages us to look inward, explore our identities, and let our wardrobes reflect who we truly are.
