In a beautifully nostalgic setting, Louise Trotter presented Carven's Spring-Summer 2025 collection on September 28, 2024. The historic Carven apartment on the Rond Point des Champs Elysées, largely untouched since Madame Carven's era in 1945, served as the perfect backdrop for a collection that celebrated the intimate relationship between a woman and her wardrobe.
The collection was a masterful study in the art of dressing and undressing, with each piece seeming to unfold and reveal itself as the models moved through the various rooms of the apartment. This concept was beautifully illustrated by mid-show, (Look 27): a flowing teal ensemble that combined a draped top with voluminous, ruffled trousers. The model's confident stride, accentuated by sleek sunglasses and a structured beige handbag, embodied the collection's theme of fluid transitions between day and night wear.
Trotter's exploration of underpinnings and layers was evident in another stunning sand-colored slip dress. The gown's simple silhouette was elevated by thoughtful details like delicate spaghetti straps and subtle side slits, creating an effortless elegance that spoke to the collection's emphasis on the "nonchalance" Trotter mentioned.
Another highlight look showcased Trotter's masterful handling of sheer fabrics and layering. A diaphanous white dress with intricate lacework and a deep V-neck was paired with a tan leather tote, creating a striking contrast between delicacy and practicality. This juxtaposition perfectly captured the essence of the Carven woman - equally at home in the bedroom or the kitchen, as Trotter noted in her collection statement.
Perhaps the most dramatic piece was Look 15: an oversized trench coat in a rich camel tone. The exaggerated lapels and voluminous silhouette created a cocoon-like effect, emphasizing the collection's themes of intimacy and protection. The bright red sandals provided a pop of color, adding a playful touch to the otherwise neutral palette.
Throughout the presentation, Trotter's attention to the "touch of the human hand" was evident. The way fabrics draped, folded, and moved with the models showcased the craftsmanship behind each piece. This tactile quality, combined with the intimate setting of the Carven apartment, created a deeply personal atmosphere that allowed viewers to connect with both the process and the final product.
By presenting the collection in the very spaces where it was conceived, Trotter invited the audience into the creative process, blurring the lines between designer, garment, and wearer. This Spring-Summer 2025 collection not only paid homage to Carven's rich heritage, but also firmly established Trotter's vision for the brand's future - one that celebrates the intimate, everyday moments of a woman's life through thoughtful, beautifully crafted clothing.
