Brian Atwood knows how to vacation famously well. Just take a gander at his enviable Instagram for proof. But often, as was the case for spring, a little R&R leads to working inspiration.
For spring 16, the designer referenced his half Mexican lineage in a collection that was first dreamt up while holidaying in Tulum and later Acapulco.
“I started traveling more in Mexico and wanted to celebrate that part of my heritage,” he said as an authentic mariachi band he found in Milan provided a live (and lively) presentation soundtrack. “When you hear them play, you just want to move and dance,” he said. “That’s what I want you to feel like when you put on my shoes.”
The collection was billed as a return to Atwood’s roots and part of an ongoing effort to refocus growth of the brand. There was an emphasis on bold gestures and artful, unique embellishment — his natural design M.O.
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This season, his extreme flourishes included some very swoony large silk chiffon hibiscus blooms at the ankle of peep toe pumps. Kaleidoscope prints on strappy silk sandals (and some rather severely platformed styles) were actually a manipulated photograph Atwood took of a stack of sombreros. Even toned-down black suede two-strap heels had bugle bead fringe bursting from the back.
A temper from all the spice came from a more neutral lineup, which it’s good to see the technicolor Atwood devoting space to. Cocoa block heels with turquoise beading bridged Atwood’s evening glamour with something smartly transitional. And for those women who wouldn’t dare try to wear a pair of his towering stilettos. But then, a striking beige and gold woven high-heel sandal begged the question “What couldn’t you wear this with?”
“It all about exploring,” Atwood shared. “Exploring new styles, new countries, all of it.”
Let’s hope he keeps pushing himself to unchartered territory.
Click through the gallery below to explore the collection.
