Simply Abu Dhabi Magazine XVII

2 2 0 S I M P LY A B U DH A B I board for Kenzo. Despite only having held their positions as head designers for a couple of years at this point, their impact has been huge. The fearlessness with which they approach their work – as well the unapologetically daring designs that come to fruition as a result – has the industry buzzing in all the right ways. Continuing that trend, this line has already receive rave reviews. One of its central elements is the selection of parkas – a staple of the Frenchman’s wardrobe owing to the fact that it’s so ideally suited to zipping around narrow Parisian backstreets atop an oh-so-modern moped. Here, it’s equal parts function and fashion, oversized and boasting an array of eye-catching patterns which are offset against considerably more subdued background colours. The juxtaposition of setting gentle pastel shades behind audacious, striking prints is a theme that runs consistently through the entire line. Geometric patterns, asymmetrical stripes and polka dots are all in bountiful supply, liberally painted across canvases of pink, mint and sky blue. Symbolism also plays an important role; several pieces are adorned with iconic images of both French and American culture, such as the Eiffel Tower or Statue of Liberty. Serving almost as a visual manifestation of the collection’s ‘French dynamism meets American daredevilry’ attitude, it’s a delightful combination that reminds us how the simplest of ideas can often be the most potently effective. Kenzo has always been a brand more concerned with mischievously pushing boundaries than diligently adhering to them. In fact, about the only thing we’ve come to expect from them these days is the totally and utterly unexpected. Many would say that their sense of adventure is inspiring, while others may deride its riskiness. All we know is that we can’t wait to see what they come up with next.

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