Marimekko's autumn/winter '23 collection is 'Shaped By Architecture' both in name and in nature
When any fashion lover thinks of Marimekko, they first think of painterly, eye-popping prints and textiles. Secondly, the brand's characteristic clean lines and sculptural proportions. This season, it's the latter that really comes to the fore with a collection that pays homage to the captivating world of modern architecture where form follows function.
Aptly dubbed 'Shaped By Architecture', the essence of Marimekko's autumn/winter '23 collection is the power of fashion and architecture to shape our identity and influence our style. It inspires harmonious prints with a mid-century modern flow, tailoring essentials with a twist, and geometric dresses, complete with a sculptural sleeve here and an asymmetrical collar there.
“For fall/winter 2023, we work with sharp architectural graphics both in pattern and cut. As a result, our most recognized archetype silhouettes act as the canvas for the season’s architectural prints,” says Rebekka Bay, creative director at Marimekko.
our most recognized archetype silhouettes act as the canvas for the season’s architectural prints
Rebekka Bay, creative director at Marimekko
A palette of stark whites, sophisticated browns, black, and calming blues embody the sleekness and purity of mid-century foundational materials. At the same time, lively hues of lilac show reverence for moments of unexpected vibrancy found in architecture.
Mid-century modernist elements flow throughout the key looks. A long dress in organic cotton twill features a flared-cut hem, voluminous sleeves, and pockets. Meanwhile, crisp tailoring in shirts and pants, made of lightweight wool blends, interchange with geometric details like a curved hemline or a contrast black pattern piece – forming the blown-up proportions of one of the collection's key prints. Then, a textural surprise appears. An intarsia sweater, knitted from certified responsible merino wool, is designed to cocoon with its relaxed fit, elegant V-neck, and wide ribbing at the hems.
“The season highlights new architecturally inspired prints by the talented next-generation print designer Antti Kekki combined with some of our celebrated archive prints,” says Bay. For example, Kekki’s pattern Pilari (pillar) draws inspiration from sculpture and the light and shadows cast on their surface. Another star print, Kupoli (dome), features round shapes with vertical sections, depicting a domed ceiling high above with rays of light filtering through the window.
Marimekko’s AW23 offering invites experimentation and evolution. With playful layering and juxtapositioning of textures, this is a collection that allows you to sartorially immerse yourself in the transformative power of great architecture.
