2024.1 Santiago, Chile
Lupe Gajardo 2024.1 Collection: A Triumphant Return to Eclectic, Zero-Waste Fashion
After a two-year hiatus, Lupe Gajardo makes a powerful return to the fashion world with her 2024.1 Collection, unveiled at Andes Fashion Week. Known for her eclectic, punk-inspired style and commitment to sustainability, Gajardo once again pushes the boundaries of fashion with a collection that is both innovative and deeply personal.
Inspiration and Process
The 2024.1 Collection is a continuation of Lupe’s exploration of zero-waste fashion, a technique she has perfected over the years. This collection was born out of a period of personal transformation—after becoming a mother, Lupe took a step back from the fashion industry to reflect on her creative path. Living on the coast, away from the hustle of city life, allowed her to refine her vision and prioritize her projects.
The inspiration for this collection comes from her desire to create garments that are not only beautiful but also sustainable. By using the zero-waste moldage technique—where each piece is crafted from exact squares or rectangles of fabric—Lupe minimizes textile waste while maintaining the spontaneity of her creative process. The collection is characterized by fluid silhouettes that form directly on the mannequin, with each garment taking shape through the interplay of tension, pleats, and draping.
Design and Aesthetic
The 2024.1 Collection embodies Lupe Gajardo’s punk spirit, with designs that are as rebellious as they are refined. The collection features genderless, timeless pieces that challenge traditional fashion norms. Lupe worked with upcycled materials, including fabrics from her personal collection and remnants donated by fellow designers like Sebastián del Real. This approach not only underscores her commitment to sustainability but also adds a layer of individuality to each garment.
Lupe describes her creative process as free from the constraints of conventional design steps. She allows the fabric and the moment to guide her, resulting in garments that are uniquely expressive and reflective of her artistic identity. The collection includes a mix of oversized and fitted silhouettes, with a strong emphasis on texture and layering. The use of muted tones, punctuated by bold, punk-inspired details, creates a striking visual contrast that captures the essence of Lupe’s aesthetic.
A New Chapter in Fashion
In addition to presenting the 2024.1 Collection, Lupe Gajardo announced a significant evolution in her brand. She has decided to divide her label into two distinct lines: one that continues to emphasize her creative freedom and artistic expression, and another that offers a more accessible prêt-à-porter line. This decision reflects her desire to meet the diverse needs of her audience while staying true to her core values of innovation and sustainability.
Looking Ahead
The 2024.1 Collection is a powerful testament to Lupe Gajardo’s resilience and creativity. After a period of introspection, she returns to the fashion scene with a collection that not only celebrates her unique vision but also reaffirms her commitment to pushing the boundaries of sustainable fashion. As she continues to evolve her brand, Lupe remains a leading voice in the fashion industry, inspiring both her peers and her audience with her bold, uncompromising approach.
