The fashion industry has the rare gift of having a voice that can be both heard and seen. When it takes inspiration from traditional patterns, it is like offering a beautiful wearable homage to a people.A Tatreez-inspired collection stitches together stories of resilience and history. Seeing Paisley swirl down runways is a reminder of the rich Persian heritage. The richness and beauty of the arabesque pattern in clothing are a tribute to the exquisite Middle Eastern culture.
Let’s look back at some instances when global ethnic patterns served as inspiration for high-fashion clothing collections.
Valentino’s Spring/Summer 2016 Collection
Valentino’s creative directors, Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pierpaolo Piccioli mirrored African motifs, incorporating tribal patterns and earthy tones into their S/S 2016 collection. The pieces celebrated the beauty of African culture and craftsmanship. The runway unfolded with ceramic necklaces mimicking bone structures and sophisticated dresses beautifully woven with tribal motifs. Their vision was to seamlessly blend ancient traditions with contemporary styles. The collection highlighted the symbiosis between the past and present, accentuating how ancestral influences shape current trends. Laser-cut leather formed intricate patterns, while delicate micro studs and beadwork adorned the pieces, adding a remarkable touch to their artistic fusion.
Givenchy’s Couture Fall 2019 Collection
Clare Waight Keller incorporated Arabesque elements in for the Givenchy Couture Fall 2019 Collection, showcasing ornate patterns in luxurious fabrics. The collection featured elaborate detailing reminiscent of Islamic art, celebrating the elegance of Arabesque motifs.
Chanel Resort 2015 Collection
Chanel’s Resort 2015 Collection was all about mixing their classic style with the look of the Palestinian Keffiyeh. Karl Lagerfeld designed suits and dresses that had similar patterns and colors to the Keffiyeh. He made them fancier with embroidery and decorations, but you could see the Keffiyeh’s influence. The collection was a way of honoring the culture and craft of the Middle East while staying true to Chanel’s vibe. It was remarkable, showing this mix of Keffiyeh-inspired designs and Chanel’s luxury on the runway in Dubai.
Louis Vuitton’s Cruise 2017 Collection
In 2017, Nicolas Ghesquière took inspiration from Japan, incorporating traditional Japanese motifs like the Kabuki mask and kimono-style belts into the collection. The fusion of modern fashion with elements of Japanese culture was stunning. Models walked over a suspension bridge wearing Nicolas Ghesquière’s collection in leopard spots, studded leathers, and sequin-adorned fabrics.
ETRO’s F/W 2017 Collection
ETRO’s Fall/Winter 2017 collection was a bold celebration of diverse cultural patterns and influences. The brand delved into a rich tapestry of designs, drawing inspiration from global cultures. It was all about a fusion of motifs, where paisley, an iconic element in ETRO’s aesthetic, took center stage alongside various cultural patterns. The collection featured a vibrant array of textiles, from intricate jacquards to bold prints, evoking a sense of wanderlust and cultural appreciation. ETRO seamlessly blended patterns from different origins, paying homage to traditions worldwide while infusing them with the brand’s signature bohemian spirit. The collection stood as a testament to the beauty of cultural diversity.
