Madonna’s ‘Vogue’ on the soundtrack. Painting models in the background. Sculpted skirts that looked like, yes, Venus of Willendorf. Thom Browne wanted to convey the idea of feminine artistry in his surreal, autumn-winter 2018 collection. Shortly, it’s “Vigée Le Brun painting a vision of what she wanted to be in the 21st century.” The 18th-century female artist, who was famous for being Marie Antoinette’s official portraitist, was an exception in the male dominated profession. No wonder why she’s the inspiration behind the collection. Browne never stops to surprise with his love for craftsmanship – the grey dress with ’embroidered’ nipples and ‘knitted’ pubic hair is a highlight, just like the delightful roses on capes and coats. A show to remember.

Collage by Edward Kanarecki.