Upside Down. Hodakova AW24

Ellen Hodakova Larsson indulges in imperfection and inventiveness. This Swede has built a practice of finding treasure where others see trash, echoing ideas of new materialism. She crafts witty, contemporary classics using already-existing materials, many of which carry a patina that only time can impart. Bras, belts, metal trays, a constellation of buttons, waistbands, and underwires have all been through her hands, turning into artisanal garments. Through her work, which often involves turning things over (see the trouser dresses) and inside out (the garments made of lining fabrics), patchworking (this season’s argyles), and accumulating, Hodakova is turning the idea of value upside down. Her bricolage pieces – often rough at the edges and with emphasis on tactility – are related to the designer’s own values and upbringing. A former competitive equestrienne, she was raised on a working farm that, she said, made her “very aware of what things cost, what you can do, how you can grow things yourself – what you can do with nothing in general.” It’s been proven over and over how limitations foster creativity, and that’s reflected in the designer’s autumn-winter 2024 collection. Smart tufted looks referenced the chesterfield sofas the designer grew up with. The attaché case that turned into a dress belonged to her father. Beret shoulders on a top and a top made of molded-metal serving trays flirted with the romance of Paris. The designer has made it a signature to crown every collection with a dress made of one object: this time, prize ribbons replaced the viral spoons and watches of last season.