Simply Abu Dhabi XXVII

Viktor & Rolf Action dolls were the protagonists of the Viktor & Rolf autumn/winter 2017 haute couture collection. Playful and fashionable, they are mascots bringing messages of a fresh and diverse approach to life. Their outfits consist of bomber jackets, jeans and T-shirts mixed with Dr. Marten boots and customised Viktor & Rolf slippers. The bombers come in various shapes and sizes and some even resemble ball gowns. The message of the collection seems to be that these action dolls can transform the fashion world, with one dress reinterpreted multiple times. Patchwork is a unique statement and at first sight the whole look is unsettling and it’s difficult to gauge your true reaction… but then you start to love them and notice the details of the collection whose softened and voluminous haute couture shapes give a whole new dimension to the Viktor & Rolf rebellious style. Skirts, bows and ruffles interrupt the silhouette of the action doll-style models and emphasise this new haute couture spirit in a simple way. There is no embroidery and no evident opulence – just a sense of nostalgic rebelliousness and a fresh concept of understated luxury and haute couture. The image is strong but the attitude is girlish; everything follows the designers’ motto of exploring the idea of upcycling, with patchwork techniques used to create something new from something old. Old and new, precious and humble, a combination of materials and simplicity – Viktor & Rolf’s new collection is an expression of all these contrasts and values creating a unity through diversity, bringing together instead of dividing, regardless of colour, nationality or age. 1 1 9 S I M P LY A B U DH A B I