You know a collection is special when it draws inspiration from art, transforming creativity into wearable designs. Max Mara, an enduring symbol of Italian luxury and refinement, has achieved this beautifully with its Pre-Fall 2024 collection, inspired by Alexander Calder’s newly restored masterpiece, “Cirque Calder.”
Created by Alexander Calder in the early 20th century, this miniature circus, made from wire, wood, cloth, and other found objects, captures the charm and joy of the circus. Calder’s piece is celebrated for its playful movement and innovative use of materials, bringing to life a magical world of performers, acrobats, and animals under the big top. The recent restoration of “Cirque Calder” has revived its lively colours and spirit, making it a fitting muse for a fashion collection that seeks to combine artistry with everyday wear.
The brilliance of its flying pennants, glowing lamps and dazzling performers under its towering Big Top is the energy behind this collection’s leopard prints, audacious stripes and distinctive spots and stars, three of the season’s most trending patterns. Rendered in red, camel, black and white the look is bold and daring: tiny twill shorts with a pannier constriction; a mini pareo worn with a mannish blazer tucked in; a poplin shirt dress with pie crust frill to add volumes to the sleeve and a trapeze shaped organza trench coat, are created to deliver all the fun of this unique fair, bringing the playfulness of Calder’s circus to your wardrobe.
Try layering the mini pareo over high-waisted pants and pairing it with a long-sleeved blouse. This combination offers a polished finish that is perfect for both work and social gatherings. By incorporating these elements, you can achieve a look that is both contemporary and modest.
Volume is another key trend this season, and Max Mara’s poplin shirt dress with a pie crust frill adds a dramatic flair to the sleeves while keeping the overall silhouette refined. This dress can be paired with wide-leg trousers or a long, flowy skirt to create an elevated look.
The trapeze-shaped organza trench coat is the showstopper of the collection. This statement piece works beautifully over monochrome outfits.
