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Femme Fatale: Kristoffer Kongshaug and Empowerment Through Design in Forza Collective AW26

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Femme Fatale: Kristoffer Kongshaug and Empowerment Through Design in Forza Collective AW26 text by Ella Nelson Copenhagen-born and -based brand Forza Collective operates at the intersection of couture and ready-to-wear and is instantly recognizable for its beautifully balanced sharp tailoring and cocktail elegance. Rooted in the juxtaposition of structure and softness, the AW26 collection was no exception. Set within an industrial concrete space and featuring camp collars, impeccable cutouts, fluid draping, and the image of a powerful woman, the collection emerged as classy and colorful—a love letter to female empowerment. Odalisque had the pleasure of sitting down with Kristoffer Kongshaug, Forza Collective’s founder and creative director, to discuss craftsmanship, his signature design elements, and the inspiration behind the AW26 collection. art direction Alexis Markimage courtesy Kristoffer Li ‘Forza’ is an Italian word that translates to strength, force, or power. What does the word mean to you personally, and how does it shape the work you do? I like it because of the state of mind it reflects, either to my work approach or everyday life. Please tell us about how the AW26 collection came to life. What inspired it, what did the creative process look like, and how does the showcase reflect those ideas? It was a combination of an image of my aunt from when I was only a toddler. She worked for Air France and traveled back and forth from Paris to Denmark. She was the first woman in my life to dress up, and that image has stuck with me ever since. I also had baroque images of collars and layers of collars which went into the styling and some of the gowns. Which key elements or collaborators played a role in shaping the AW26 collection? The AW26 collection features pleated high-neck collars with ruffles in mesh, finished with raw edges, a technique also applied to skirts. Shirts showcase ascot collars and extended cuffs, while coats and shirts are designed with color-block collars and cocoon sleeves. Tonal or color-block strips of double-face wool and cotton poplin, reinforced with boning, are a recurring styling detail, emphasizing the neck and the structural construction of the garments. Circular cutouts on dresses and tops highlight architectural lines and create a sensual silhouette with exposed backs. Signature pipe pleating appears on day dresses, complemented by deconstructed bra cups on cocktail dresses. Draped suit pants evoke the feel of layered skirts, adding movement and dimension to the overall look. Are there any specific pieces, details, or ideas you’d like to highlight from this collection? The opening look. A deconstructed blazer in grey wool with a matching skirt, styled with a bright red top with a pleated baroque collar with ruffles in mesh. A mid length dress in black, lightweight crepe with waistline focus, featuring an open back with a flared cape that is one of main details in many of the looks throughout the collection. The red jacket in double face wool, styled with a signature flare pant and shirt, and a tonal strip of double face wool with boning around the neck that is a continuous styling detail in the collection. The closing look in deep sky blue. A peplum gown with a pleated twisted skirt that has a triangle focus towards the hem, and has a matching pleated baroque collar with ruffles. What challenges did you face in creating the collection, and what are you most proud of? The challenge season after season is that it is expected that you deliver better and bigger from the previous season, and not necessarily with more resources or a bigger team. Impact is a core value for FORZA—the creation of something that alters presence and leaves a lasting impression rather than existing solely for display. How does this translate into your designs, this collection in particular, and the brand’s creative expression more broadly? This comes down to the show pieces and styling. There will always be pieces that will be THE memory of that particular season, in this case – the collars styled with suits, and the pink and blue gown. It is all a part of the story telling and helps push the brand forward aesthetically. What do you hope audiences feel or walk away with after experiencing the AW26 showcase? The craftmanship. Everything is handmade at our atelier in Copenhagen, and I really hope that shows in the garments. How does this collection build on and strengthen the ongoing narrative of FORZA? The collections are always built with female empowerment in mind, a femme fatale if you will, and power dressing. During your career, you’ve lived and worked in both Paris and New York. What impact did these international experiences have on you as a creative, and how have they shaped your designs and your work at FORZA? This means everything to me. The craftsmanship from Paris and the commercial touch from New York are building stones for Forza. I would never be able to communicate what I want without those experiences. Craftsmanship is my way of communicating with the customer and our community, with me being present to speak to it. It is a silenced dialogue. Looking ahead, what’s next for FORZA? I am very excited for our upcoming launch of our new website and e-commerce which is something we have spent a long time on, and then of course our showroom in Paris in March. I had a lot of positive feedback from buyers which is always exciting!

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An interview with Wood Wood’s Brian SS Jensen on their AW26 collection

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An interview with Wood Wood’s Brian SS Jensen on their AW26 collection text by Ella Nelson For over two decades, Wood Wood’s Magnus Carstensen, Karl-Oskar Olsen, and Brian SS Jensen have built and positioned the Copenhagen-based brand as a defining force within the European street couture scene. With a clear nod to the outdoors—while remaining true to the brand’s contemporary streetwear sophistication—Wood Wood’s AW26 collection, titled ‘Field Studies’, presents a polished selection of outerwear, hefty knits, layered pieces, and select accessories, seamlessly merging functionality with fashion. Drawing inspiration from rural Norway and the Scottish Highlands, the collection’s color palette is dominated by shades of brown and forest green, punctuated by pops of pink and orange. In conversation with Odalisque, Brian SS Jensen, co-founder and creative director of Wood Wood, discusses the starting point of the AW26 collection, its hidden references, and the brand’s continued comeback.  Image Courtesy Wood Wood Please tell us about how the AW26 collection came to life. What inspired it, what did the creative process look like, and how does the installation reflect those ideas?  The collection was inspired by a lot of different things; I think the first spark came from a conversation about the ‘Hessdalen lights’ – this strange light phenomena that happens in rural Norway, which attracts curious visitors from all over the world. We thought a lot about the friction that can occur between outsiders and locals in these small, remote communities. The Scottish highlands became another touchpoint. We wove these different references into a loose narrative that helped guide us through the process, giving the collection a sense of place and story without being too literal about it.    Which key elements played a role in shaping the AW26 collection?  The fundamentals: shape, texture, colours, prints.    Are there any specific pieces, details, or ideas you’d like to highlight from this collection?  I really like some of the heavier wool and leather outerwear pieces. There’s a weight and substance that feels right for the themes we were exploring.  What challenges did you face in creating the collection, and what are you most proud of? I’m generally quite happy about this one. It always feels like a battle to finish a new collection, but when I look at all the pieces together now, I believe we landed in a good place.  What do you hope audiences feel or walk away with after experiencing the AW26 showcase? I hope they will get a sense of the underlying stories that informed the collection. I don’t expect people to recognise or decode the specific references, nor do I really want them to, but hopefully it makes the individual pieces feel connected to a larger context.  How does this collection build on and strengthen the ongoing narrative of WOOD WOOD? Each season represents a new layer added to the brand. This collection is a reflection of our interests right now, but it’s also another chapter of a much bigger story.  Looking ahead, what’s next for WOOD WOOD?  The company has recently gone through a rather significant transformation which took a lot of time and hard work, but we are now in a strong position to build and move forward. I can’t say too much yet, but we are planning some exciting projects, and we have our 25th anniversary coming up next year!

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‘Cadavre Exquis’: Bonnetje AW26

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‘Cadavre Exquis’: Bonnetje AW26 text and photography Ella Nelson Marking their final season as part of Copenhagen Fashion Week’s NEWTALENT scheme, the repurposed tailoring brand Bonnetje brought its audience into an intimate living room in Copenhagen’s Old Town for its AW26 showcase. Welcomed by a vintage-inspired, flickering projection and mismatched glasses of pink, sparkling liquid, guests and models mingled under warm, dramatic spotlights while roaming the room to a live musical performance by Francesca Buratelli and Villads Klint. The collection—centered on surrealism and fragmentation—felt intentional, powerful, and sensuous, serving as a strong showcase of what Bonnetje does best: transforming the suit into reassembled silhouettes through creative structures and impeccable craftsmanship. In conversation with Odalisque, co-founders and creative directors Anna Myntekær and Yoko Maja Rahbek Hansen offer a glimpse into the processes behind the collection, reflect on the importance of collaboration, and look ahead to where the brand is headed next. Ella Nelson: Please tell us about how the AW26 collection came to life. What inspired it, what did the creative process look like, and how does the showcase reflect those ideas? Anna Myntekær and Yoko Maja Rahbek Hansen: This season, we have, among other things, explored the blending of time and place. We have drawn inspiration from the methods of Surrealism and worked with misplaced objects. The formal and avant-garde expression of the suit has been combined with glimpses from our youth. We held our showcase in old living rooms which fitted well to the idea of mixing time and space. We also made a video with Casper Sejersen, which was a central part of the showcase.   EN: Your process begins at the opposite end of traditional design, starting with the deconstruction of existing garments. How do you navigate this approach to create pieces that feel distinctly your own, and how did this method inform the development of the AW26 collection? AM & YH: It comes very naturally to us, and the design process flows easily. We usually start by working a bit, cutting pieces apart and putting them back together, and then often pass the work to each other to continue. That’s also why we chose to name the collection ‘Cadavre Exquis’.   EN: Last year, with SS26, you took a slightly new approach compared to previous collections, placing greater emphasis on ready-to-wear. What prompted this shift, and how did it influence the direction of AW26? AM & YH: We felt it was important to show that many of our designs also work in daily life and that they are wearable. Many of the shapes we created for AW26 are quite basic – such as pencil skirts, slip dresses, etc. – and it is more the materials and textures that are slightly less commercial. EN: Which key elements or collaborators played a role in shaping the AW26 collection? AM & YH: Of course, always the suit. But besides that, it was the video we made with Casper Sejersen and stylist Rikke Wackerhausen. From an early stage in the process, we had a strong desire to make a film, and it became something of a starting point. It has been very interesting to see how Casper has translated our universe into a film with his own touch, and it is something we are very proud of. It has also been a great learning process, working with Rikke’s styling and creative consulting on the side, and seeing how it all has come to life.   EN: Collaboration is a strong part of your practice. You’ve built a close-knit creative circle—including Casper Sejersen, Francesca Burattelli, and design studio Alexis Mark. How did these relationships come about, and how have they shaped Bonnetje’s creative identity? AM & YH: Collaborations are a very important part of Bonnetje. We couldn’t have done this without them. We love working across multiple mediums, and we also think it’s important for both small and established artists to stand together. We are grateful for the support and for these collaborators’ intuitive understanding of our universe, and for how they have helped elevate it to new heights.   EN: You’ve also worked closely with leather-goods brand Venczel on collaborations and exclusive drops. What sparked that partnership, and how did you approach those projects creatively? AM & YH: We loved Venczel’s design and her very well made craftsmanship. She’s really talented. It’s a bit of the same – a match made from heaven and an intuitive collaboration on design and material. EN: Are there any specific pieces, details, or ideas you’d like to highlight from this collection? AM & YH: This time, we explored how we could reshape a new material by combining multiple elements, such as collars and cuffs, to create a new narrative, material, and texture. We also worked with the sculptural shoulders of the suits by creating a dress featuring several of them. The result highlights the symbolic power of the suit, resembling a ballroom dress with multiple strong, sculptural shoulders.   EN: What challenges did you face in creating the AW26 collection, and what are you most proud of? AM & YH: As always, it comes down to time and money, haha… And also the format of a presentation instead of a show. We think this is a format that suits us best, but it’s challenging for the models and for us to create an experience lasting two hours instead of ten minutes. A presentation needs to have something special. We wanted it to be intimate, yet inclusive. What we’re most proud of is that it all came together, and that so many lovely and talented people helped us get through it. They have been indispensable.   EN: What do you hope audiences feel or walk away with after experiencing the AW26 showcase? AM & YH: That they’ve been a part of something unique.   EN: How does this collection build on and strengthen the ongoing narrative of Bonnetje? AM & YH: There was a lot of storytelling in this collection – and we hope

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A Journey in Time: Stephane Waser on 50 Years of Maurice Lacroix

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A Journey in Time: Stephane Waser on 50 Years of Maurice Lacroix Marking half a century of Swiss watchmaking, Maurice Lacroix looks ahead rather than back. In an exclusive interview, Stephane Waser speaks about the brand’s defining moments, its core values, and how iconic collections like AIKON continue to redefine accessible luxury for a new generation of watch lovers. Ulrika Lindqvist: How have your designs developed over these 50 years? What discoveries have you made? Stephane Waser: Since our foundation in 1975 in Saignelégier, design has evolved alongside the identity of Maurice Lacroix. The launch of the Masterpiece line was a key moment, allowing us to enter haute horlogerie and explore bold complications like the Square Wheel and Mysterious Seconds. These watches pushed our creative and technical limits, and that know-how still shapes our designs today. Another major shift came in 2016 with the launch of AIKON, a modern reinterpretation of Calypso. It marked a new direction, speaking to a younger, urban audience with strong design and clear value, making Swiss quality more accessible. With the 1975 Collection, 1975 Legacy, and AIKONIC, we celebrated our 50 th Anniversary by honoring our heritage while reinterpreting it for modern watch lovers. That balance between roots and relevance defines Maurice Lacroix. UL: What are the characteristics of Maurice Lacroix? SW: Maurice Lacroix is defined by a clear mission: Swiss craftsmanship, iconic design, and accessible excellence. We stand for accessible luxury, combining strong aesthetics, functionality, and our Swiss heritage in every timepiece. What has evolved is how we express these values. In the early years, the brand explored a wide range of references and even ventured into high-end, complex watchmaking. Over the past decade, we’ve refined our approach, focusing on a clearer identity built around strong, coherent collections — with AIKON as a key example — and placing greater emphasis on understanding and engaging with our customers. UL: What defines a good timepiece for you?  SW: For me, a good timepiece brings together Swiss craftsmanship, iconic design, and real functionality, all delivered with a sense of accessible excellence. It has to be authentic — rooted in genuine watchmaking know-how, particularly our heritage in the Jura, where strong finishing, quality, and design are part of being a true manufacture. A good watch should also feel inclusive rather than exclusive. It needs to look and feel premium, use quality materials, and offer lasting value, while remaining within reach. Today’s customers, whether seasoned collectors or first-time buyers, are looking for thatbalance: a watch with a clear identity, strong design — like AIKON — and the reassurance of Swiss expertise at a fair price. UL: Do you have a favorite piece from your collection? What makes it special to you? SW: My favorite piece is the AIKONIC Master Triple Retrograde. What makes it special is how completely it expresses the Maurice Lacroix mindset. Throughout our history, we’ve always looked for inventive ways to indicate time, using curves, lines, colors, and materials to createbold and expressive watchmaking. Retrograde displays are a perfect example of this spirit. It has been over 25 years since we introduced our first retrograde model, the Calendar Retrograde, featuring a proprietary mechanism — and since then, this rare complication hasbecome a true signature of the brand. The AIKONIC Master Triple Retrograde brings all of that together in one watch. It combines three retrograde indications — day, date, and power reserve — with skeletonized elements, creating a display that is both technical and highly visual. Clearly inspired by our pastcreations, it distills the AIKON design codes, our manufacture movement expertise, and our mastery of materials into one singular form. For me, it feels like a future icon. It shows our ability to make high watchmaking complications relevant for today, delivering an ultra-desirable, urban timepiece while offering a clear glimpse into the future direction of Maurice Lacroix. UL: What would you say are the three core values that define Maurice Lacroix? SW: Maurice Lacroix is defined by three core values: accessibility with high perceived value, offering Swiss luxury watchmaking at fair prices; quality and craftsmanship, rooted in strong Swiss traditions and in-house expertise; and innovation driven by the journey, where creativity, technical progress, and bold ideas shape the brand’s continuous evolution. UL: How would you describe the typical Maurice Lacroix customer?  SW: The typical Maurice Lacroix customer values authenticity above all, drawn by our genuine Swiss craftsmanship and deep roots in the Jura. They appreciate watches with strong finishing, thoughtful design, and true quality. At the same time, they seek accessibility—they want premium-looking, well-made timepieces that offer real Swiss expertise without being out of reach. Whether collectors or first-time buyers, they value the balance of exceptional design and fair pricing. Most importantly, they expect a brand that listens, understands, and anticipates their needs, creating a genuine connection beyond just the watch itself. UL: If you could design for anyone, who would be your dream client? SW: If I could design for anyone, my dream client would be someone who embodies self-made success—not relying on inherited wealth, but earning everything through hard work and determination. They’d have an adventurous spirit and a strong sense of urban cool, with an appreciation for genuine craftsmanship without any pretension. This client would likely be part of the Millennial or Gen-Z generation, digitally savvy and globally minded. Whether an entrepreneur, an athlete who has overcome challenges, a creative professional, or an explorer, their personal journey and mindset would perfectly resonate with Maurice Lacroix’s philosophy that success is a journey, not a destination. UL: Is there a particular moment in these 50 years that stands out as especially memorable? SW: One thing I want to make clear is that for our 50th anniversary, we didn’t simply look back and celebrate our legacy — that’s not really in the spirit of Maurice Lacroix. Of course, we marked the milestone with collections like the 1975 and the AIKONIC, which honor where we come from. But what matters most to us is consistency: staying true

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Cole & Son and Vivienne Westwood Introduce New Wallcovering Collaboration

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Cole & Son and Vivienne Westwood Introduce New Wallcovering Collaboration Cole & Son will debut a new capsule collection in collaboration with Vivienne Westwood, bringing together two British design houses known for their heritage, craftsmanship, and distinct visual identities. The partnership marks the first time Cole & Son has translated the fashion house’s iconic prints and hand‑drawn graphics into wallcoverings, reimagining Westwood’s design language for contemporary interiors. Launching in 2026, the collection draws from Vivienne Westwood’s extensive runway history and celebrated print archives. Fabrics, motifs, and graphic elements have been adapted into wallpaper designs that merge historical references with an avant‑garde approach. The result is a series that connects fashion, interior design, and art through a shared commitment to intentional, expressive design. A preview of the collaboration will be presented during Paris Design Week in January 2026 at a curated installation on Rue Saint‑Honoré. The space will be arranged as a living gallery, featuring four distinct areas that highlight the versatility of the collection. Visitors will experience signature Westwood prints at a life‑size scale, including Rainforest Squiggle, Absence of Roses Moiré, MacAndreas Tartan, and the V&A design. image courtesy Cole & Son, Vivienne Westwood Marie Karlsson, Creative and Managing Director at Cole & Son, described the collaboration as a dialogue between two design houses with aligned values. “A true design dialogue between two iconic British design houses, translating the movement, fabric, and form of fashion into the materiality and mood of interiors. It reflects a shared commitment to intentional design. My vision for this collection blends bold beautiful colors with fluid form and tactile richness, creating interiors that feel dynamic, layered, and unmistakably tomorrow. “It is a privilege to introduce this collection into the world of interiors. Vivienne Westwood has long been a profound source of inspiration for me—her uncompromising design language, boundless creativity, and unwavering individuality. I am so proud of this collection infused with passion.”

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INSTITUTION Wins the Zalando Visionary Award at Copenhagen Fashion Week

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INSTITUTION Wins the Zalando Visionary Award at Copenhagen Fashion Week During Copenhagen Fashion Week AW26, the Zalando Visionary Award returned for its fourth edition, continuing its focus on design innovation, craftsmanship, and social impact. This year’s winner is INSTITUTION, the brand founded by designer Galib Gassanoff. On 28 January, the three finalists presented their hero pieces in a curated exhibition, each showcasing three looks that reflected their aesthetic direction. The presentation was accompanied by a panel talk hosted by mentor Giuliano Calza, who led a conversation on culture, creativity, and the future of fashion. The discussion offered insight into the designers’ broader inspirations and the ideas behind their work. Following the showcase, the jury announced INSTITUTION as the winner. The decision highlighted the brand’s clear vision and refined approach to construction. Gassanoff’s ability to draw from diverse cultural references while maintaining a strong, cohesive identity was repeatedly noted as a defining strength. Sara Spännar, VP of Brand & Creative at Zalando and member of the jury, emphasized the designer’s commitment to craftsmanship: “Galib’s determination to craftsmanship while bringing together his cultural experiences was the proof point that tipped the scales.” She described Gassanoff’s cultural perspective as a key factor in the jury’s decision, noting how it aligns with the award’s aim to support emerging designers who bring new viewpoints to the industry. Gassanoff expressed gratitude for the recognition, “I believe in sharing my brand with the world and I am grateful whenever this project is recognized as a valuable one. I wish to thank the people who have supported my vision since its inception and help me build it all the way.” image courtesy Zalando As part of the award, INSTITUTION will debut its SS27 collection during the August edition of Copenhagen Fashion Week. The brand will receive mentorship from creative director Edward Buchanan, along with a €50,000 cash prize and €35,000 in production support. Casting director Emma Matell will collaborate on the upcoming show. The Zalando Visionary Award continues to highlight designers who contribute to a more inclusive and forward‑thinking fashion landscape. INSTITUTION’s win reflects a growing interest in brands that combine technical skill with a global, contemporary point of view.

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Chanel Haute Couture Spring Summer 2026

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Chanel Haute Couture Spring Summer 2026 A moment, held briefly “I saw the beauty at once. Then gone, flown away.” The anonymous haiku that opens Chanel’s Spring Summer 2026 Haute Couture collection feels less like an introduction and more like a quiet instruction: pay attention, this will not last. Haute Couture has always been the soul of Chanel. Not simply as an exercise in craftsmanship, but as a deeply personal exchange between the House and the woman who wears its creations. Clothes here are not finished when they leave the atelier; they are completed by the life that inhabits them. As Matthieu Blazy reminds us, it is the wearer who gives couture its true story. With his debut Haute Couture collection for the house, Blazy does not attempt to redefine Chanel. Instead, he returns to its core, carefully stripping it back to its essence. What remains is something both intimate and expansive: the body, the soul, and the quiet power of self-expression. The collection opens almost like a memory. The Chanel suit appears in transparent silk mousseline, softly constructed, tender in tone. It feels less worn than remembered. Embedded within it are small emotional artefacts: a love letter, a bottle of N°5, a trace of red lipstick. Some are stitched into interiors, others hidden in pockets or suspended from the signature chain. The inside life of the garment gently reveals itself to the outside world. This exposure of intimacy is not literal but poetic. A palimpsest of personal history, layered with the House’s own. Haute Couture here becomes both garment and confession, an embroidered love letter to craft, construction, and memory. As the show unfolds, a transformation begins. Almost imperceptibly at first, the women evolve into birds. Not costumes, not disguises, but embodiments. Feathers emerge through pleating, embroidery, weaving, and layering. Rarely used outright, they are instead evoked through the mastery of the flou and tailleur ateliers, and through the exceptional artisans of le19M. From deep raven-black silhouettes that showcase the precision of tailoring, to intricate compositions of colour that recall plumage in motion, the birds take many forms. Familiar and exotic coexist: the humble pigeon alongside the pink spoonbill, the linear heron beside the crested cockatoo. Each is singular, each free. They gather briefly in an imagined landscape of towering mushrooms and an enchanted willow wood, then disperse. Like birds do. Like moments do. Here, birds are neither symbols nor metaphors alone. They are simply themselves. As is Haute Couture at its most honest: grounded in archetype, suspended in dream. For a fleeting instant, it asks us to pause. And then, just as quietly, it is gone. Flown away.

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Three Times a Charm: Sézane and Sea New York Return

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Three Times a Charm: Sézane and Sea New York Return Sézane is a Parisian atelier with an irrepressible ability to feel both timeless and deeply personal. In my previous article, I wrote that Sézane is not merely a fashion label but a story of heritage, warmth, and the poetic tension between reverie and real life, built around a strong rooted community. Today, that story returns to a familiar chapter, but one that feels newly relevant. Three times a charm, this collaboration brings cities over the sea, a shared sensibility, and two kindred spirits in design: Sézane and Sea New York. A Creative ReunionNearly a decade after opening its first U.S. doors, Sézane returns to one of its most meaningful creative relationships. The Parisian darling has reunited with Sea New York, the brand founded by Monica Paolini and Sean Monahan, for their third collaboration launching in January 2026.This collaboration is everything but just another capsule collection. It is a meeting of worlds, French ease and New York romanticism, old world craft and contemporary feminine spirit, Parisian understatement and New York vibrancy. Nearly ten years after Sézane first planted its flag in New York, this collection feels like both a homecoming and a creative renewal, a testament to how two voices can fuse without diminishing either. Echoes of Craft, Character and Connection What drew these two brands together and keeps drawing them back? In a press release, Sézane founder Morgane Sézalory reflects on the ease and joy of the collaboration. “Working with Monica and Sean again felt both natural and exciting,” she shares. “Together, we wanted to design pieces that truly delight, creations that feel unique to both of us yet belong to neither alone. That is where the magic happens.” Those words resonate deeply. As someone who has watched Sézane evolve from its early handwritten notes in packaging to installations that feel like salons of curiosity and warmth, this quote encapsulates what feels most compelling about the brand: its willingness to build bridges while staying rooted in craft and heart. For Sea New York, the partnership feels equally sincere. Co-founder Monica Paolini describes their shared mission plainly: celebrate craft, texture, and the fine details that make clothing feel personal rather than perfunctory. “We wanted to create something that felt both familiar and new, rooted in our shared appreciation for craft, yet shaped by the distinct energy of our two worlds,” she explains.   Textures of Memory and Modernity The collection itself is a study in nuance and craft. Embroidered cotton blouses nod to forgotten heirlooms, patchwork details feel hand collected rather than mass produced, and crochet and lace seem spun from a Parisian reverie yet grounded in New York grit. Structured jackets and vintage inspired silhouettes feel less like trends and more like inherited treasures, pieces you return to again and again. Seen together, the pieces are emblematic of both brands’ signatures, Sézane’s gentle effortless femininity and Sea’s romantic detail rich sensibility. It is fashion to be worn in generations, remembered, and reshaped through personal experience. The campaign, photographed on the streets of New York, pays homage to Nolita, the neighborhood that first welcomed Sézane to the United States and where its inaugural North American Apartment still lives. In that corner of Manhattan, Parisian charm and downtown verve coexist: café tables spill onto sunlit sidewalks, vintage signs rub shoulders with modern facades, and every corner feels like a story waiting to be told. Launching exclusively on sezane.com and in select Sézane apartments on January 18th.  Image Courtesy of Sézane

Gucci: La Famiglia: Inside the First Chapter of a New Era
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Gucci: La Famiglia: Inside the First Chapter of a New Era

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Gucci: La Famiglia: Inside the First Chapter of a New Era Gucci enters 2026 with a troupe of personalities rather than a single muse. La Famiglia, the House’s newly unveiled campaign, introduces a wardrobe shaped by character, attitude, and inheritance, offering a first glimpse into the world Demna is beginning to define for Gucci. Unapologetically sexy, extravagant, and precise the collection signals a purposeful shift that feels entirely of the moment. Captured through Catherine Opie’s lens, the campaign reads like a contemporary family portrait. Each figure stands as an individual, yet together they form a shared identity bound by aesthetic codes, gestures, and a distinctly Italian sense of presence. This is the new era of Gucci, lived not only worn. La Famiglia brings Gucci’s archive to life through personality, not nostalgia. Incazzata burns bright in a vivid 1960s inspired little red coat. Gallerista moves with quiet authority in black, carrying a re proportioned Bamboo 1947. In menswear, Direttore’s tailoring and Principino’s effortless presence turn dressing into confidence and pleasure. Sprezzatura runs through every gesture. Stepped in leather mules, relaxed silhouettes, clothes are worn, not performed. Sensuality is in the air, unspoken and natural. While Demna’s full vision for Gucci will be revealed in February, La Famiglia functions as a deliberate prologue. A study in archetypes, desire, and continuity, it hints at the new language of Gucci to come. Available in Gucci stores worldwide and on gucci.com from January 8. Image Courtesy of Gucci

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Odalisque Magazine Interviews Madeleine von Schedvin

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Odalisque Magazine Interviews Madeleine von Schedvin text Elsa Chagot images courtesy of Nelly Driven by a clear aesthetic and a deep connection to its audience, Nelly continues to shape its distinct design expression to the youth.  We had the pleasure to interview Madeleine von Schedvin, Head of Design and Brand at Nelly, who actively helps shape the way young women dress and reflects on her creative journey and shares how trends, fit, and long-lasting quality come together to define the brand’s design DNA. Elsa: To begin, could you tell us a little about your background and what first sparked your interest in fashion, as well as how your relationship with clothing and design has developed over time? Madeleine von Schedvin: I grew up in the textile city of Borås, where my family and relatives have a long background in textiles. Fashion and clothing have therefore always been a natural part of my everyday life. I was given the opportunity early on to express my creativity through creating, such as building, painting, and sewing, and this was always encouraged at home. That Borås also offered textile education both at upper secondary school and at university meant that I knew early on that this was the path I wanted to take. My interest in clothing and design has been constant throughout my career for over 20 years. What still fascinates me are the many layers of expression that fashion offers. Everything from how one wants to feel, which occasion one dresses for, to which trends and styles one wants to explore. Fashion is a way to communicate without words, and it is just as fun today as when I started. EC:In your role as Head of Design and Brand at Nelly, how would you describe your approach to guiding and shaping the creative process? MS: I think it is important to lead with high visions while at the same time everything must be feasible. For me, the drive and direction come from a strong analysis of the surrounding world, which gives us insights into trends, the market, and the target group, which in turn become the foundation for concrete and creative decisions. I want to create an environment where the team feels inspired, involved, and secure enough to dare to test new ideas.  EC: Nelly has a distinct aesthetic and identity. From your perspective, what defines the brand’s design DNA today, and in what ways do you feel you’ve influenced that evolution? MS: Nelly’s design DNA is built on style, fit, a clear expression, and quality. Colors and patterns play an important role in the overall feeling. My role has been to clarify and strengthen Nelly’s aesthetic and to create a consistent expression where all parts are connected. EC: When considering Nelly’s audience, how do you approach designing for young women and understanding what they’re looking for in fashion? How do you stay tuned into their needs and preferences? MS: Designing for a specific target group is about truly “feeling” them. I do this by listening, observing, monitoring the surrounding world, and analyzing trends, but also by understanding the social, cultural, and lifestyle-related changes that affect them. Women between the ages of 18–25 are in an exciting phase of life, from studies to working life, relationships, and personal development. Understanding these stages helps us create garments that feel both modern and functional, and that reflect their needs and expressions. EC: You collaborate with designers internally as well as with external brands, influencers, and creatives. What do you appreciate most about collaborative work, and what do you believe makes these partnerships successful? MS: It is very rewarding to be part of a creative process together with others; it opens up more perspectives and opportunities. It is especially fun when everything falls into place easily, with direct and honest communication and a shared understanding of vision and goals. And incredibly fun to create together! EC: How would you characterise your own personal aesthetic, and do you feel aspects of your style influence your creative direction at Nelly? MS: For me, comfort is always number one – clothes must fit well. No matter how nice I think something is, I would never wear it if it does not feel comfortable. My style is simple and relaxed, often with oversized proportions, and I like to complement it with jewelry or shoes that stand out. My personal taste does not guide Nelly’s creative direction, but my eye for trends and understanding of the brand in relation to the target group naturally influence how we develop collections. EC: Many designers draw inspiration from travel or cultural contrasts. What types of places, aesthetics, or craftsmanship inspire you most at the moment? How do you approach cultural influences in your work and ensure that inspiration is handled respectfully? MS: Travel is a major source of inspiration for me, especially places with a clear visual aesthetic. I look at how people dress on the street, architecture, interior design, and how things are conceptualized. If I draw inspiration from a culture, it is important to understand its meaning and context, so that it is done respectfully and does not become cultural appropriation. Seoul in Korea has long been a favorite destination. I am inspired by colors, silhouettes, textile production, and entrepreneurship, where visual concepts and packaging are highly valued. EC: Nelly has an important place in the wardrobes of young women. How do you approach keeping the brand relevant while also staying true to its roots? MS: For us, it is largely about building further on a style and aesthetic that holds over time. When you find your expression early, there is often a natural continuity, and that is something we protect in Nelly’s DNA. At the same time, we ensure quality in our products – garments should maintain both feel and function over time. Fit is also a central part for us, since a garment that fits correctly always feels relevant in the wardrobe, season after season. EC: Looking ahead,

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