2017.1 Santiago de Chile. Autumn-Winter
The 2017 Autumn-Winter Collection by Lupe Gajardo is a striking response to the gender protests that marked the era. Through this collection, Lupe challenges the notion that women must adopt masculine traits to assert their power, instead celebrating the strength inherent in traditionally feminine aesthetics.
Inspiration and Concept
This collection is an ironic protest against the masculinization of women as a form of empowerment. Lupe Gajardo presents a "super woman" who embraces clichés historically associated with femininity—think flowers, pink hues, skirts, corsets, and meticulously styled hair and makeup. These "goddesses" or high-impact women prove that they don't need to strip away their femininity to showcase their greatness.
The 2017 Autumn-Winter Collection is deeply influenced by baroque elements, featuring dresses with plunging necklines, deep backs, and flowing, voluminous skirts. Lupe contrasts the delicate nature of silk and sequins with the ruggedness of denim, adding a layer of aggression to her designs. This blend of materials is a nod to her fashion inspirations, including John Galliano, Sarah Burton for McQueen, and Haider Ackermann.
Design and Aesthetic
Lupe’s design process is marked by a blend of freedom and attention to detail. She often begins without a fixed pattern, allowing the creation to unfold naturally, with adjustments and transformations occurring up until the final moments. This approach results in garments that are not just clothing but works of art, each piece evolving organically as it is crafted.
The use of noble materials is a signature of Lupe’s work, which she enriches with embellishments such as feathers, stones, and more. These intricate details contribute to the collection’s slow, artisanal production process—each piece is carefully crafted, resulting in designs that are both avant-garde and timeless.
The Show and Experience
The collection was showcased in a way that echoed its themes of protest and empowerment, with a runway show that highlighted the juxtaposition of softness and strength. Models adorned in richly detailed, feminine garments walked with confidence, embodying the powerful message that femininity itself is a form of strength, not a weakness.
The Legacy
Lupe Gajardo’s 2017 Autumn-Winter Collection stands as a testament to her commitment to creative freedom and fantasy. It is a powerful statement that women can embrace their femininity and still be seen as strong, impactful, and revolutionary. This collection has further solidified Lupe’s place as a leading figure in both the national and international fashion scenes, where her work continues to challenge and inspire.
