A Cross-Generational Celebration of Glamour in London: Redefining Timeless Style
In the realm of fashion, few names carry the weight and glamour of Antony Price, a designer whose influence spans decades and continues to shape the industry. Born in 1945, Price's journey began with Roxy Music in the 1970s, where he crafted an iconic aesthetic that later evolved into the Duran Duran era. His signature style? Exaggerated silhouettes, unconventional materials, and a seamless blend of masculinity and femininity, all hallmarks of high fashion and camp. This vision not only defined the 70s glam rock movement but also set the stage for the iconic 80s silhouettes.
Fast forward 40 years, and Price's legacy is celebrated through a special collaboration with 16Arlington's creative director, Marco Capaldo. The result? A made-to-order collection that showcases the enduring impact of Price's work. The event, held at 16Arlington's studio in East London, was a spectacle of glamour and talent. British models, including the renowned Lily Allen, walked the runway in 16 unique looks, each a masterpiece in its own right.
The collection featured a blend of Price's and Capaldo's signatures. Look 11, for instance, paid homage to 16Arlington's 'Solaria' dress, a long-sleeved column dress with a cut-out bust, now reimagined in cappuccino satin and iridescent sequins. Another ensemble drew inspiration from Price's 1983 collection, featuring a twisted strapless bra, coordinating plisse trousers, and the iconic 'Zephyr' cape jacket. The fusion of their styles was evident in the first look, a sculpted hourglass jacket in Cadbury-brown calf leather, paired with a floor-length black chiffon skirt, a nod to 16Arlington's future vision.
This collaboration is more than just a fashion show; it's a testament to the power of cross-generational creativity. Price and Capaldo successfully navigated the fine line between paying homage to the past and embracing contemporary desires. Similar collaborations, such as Dries Van Noten and Christian Lacroix's Van Noten spring 2020 collection, and Marc Jacobs and André Walker's long-standing consultancy, have proven the impact of such partnerships. Capaldo's affinity for unique approaches is evident in his recent collaborations with contemporary art galleries and artists, further blurring the boundaries between fashion and art.
The real magic lies in how this collaboration challenges the notion of 'timeless.' While the term is often overused, these partnerships showcase designs that transcend fleeting trends. Younger, established talent, like Capaldo, can connect the past and present, offering a fresh perspective on the artistry that influenced their work. This link-up between British fashion icons not only celebrates glamour but also proves that collaboration is timeless, and Antony Price's legacy is well-deserved and ever-evolving.
