2015.1 New York Fashion Week

Lupe Gajardo’s 2015 Autumn-Winter Collection marks a significant milestone in her career, as she became the first Chilean designer to present at New York Fashion Week. At just 27 years old, Lupe brought a unique blend of Chilean culture and avant-garde fashion to the global stage, captivating audiences with her innovative use of materials and distinct aesthetic.

The 2015 Autumn-Winter Collection draws inspiration from two contrasting yet complementary sources: birds and beggars. Lupe sought to capture the beauty in the ordinary, transforming everyday objects and natural elements into high fashion. By repurposing coffee sacks into skirts and coats, and incorporating feathers into dresses and bodysuits, she created a collection that is both raw and refined.

Lupe’s approach to this collection was rooted in simplicity and authenticity. She wanted to showcase "beauty without pretension," which is reflected in the earthy color palette of browns, beiges, and greens, as well as the use of organic cottons and thick knits. The result is a collection that speaks to the essence of Chilean culture—unadorned, natural, and deeply connected to the land.

The 2015 Autumn-Winter Collection is characterized by wide silhouettes, layered looks, and an overall sense of comfort and ease. The garments are both wearable and artistically bold, making them suitable for the everyday woman who values authenticity and simplicity. Lupe’s decision to design the shoes and handbags for the collection, in collaboration with the Chilean footwear brand Bestias, added an extra layer of cohesion to the overall aesthetic.

The collection’s standout pieces include oversized denim jackets, flowing skirts made from repurposed materials, and accessories adorned with safety pins—a nod to the gritty, raw inspiration behind the collection. Each piece embodies a sense of resilience and resourcefulness, qualities that resonate deeply with Lupe’s vision of a modern, empowered woman.

Lupe Gajardo’s work is deeply influenced by her native Chile. Having lived in different regions of the country—from the arid north to the vibrant coast and finally settling in the capital, Santiago—Lupe’s designs are a reflection of Chile’s diverse landscapes and cultural richness. This collection is no exception, as it blends traditional Chilean elements with a contemporary, avant-garde twist.

The collection’s debut at New York Fashion Week was a groundbreaking moment, not just for Lupe but for Chilean fashion as a whole. It showcased the potential of Latin American designers to make a significant impact on the global fashion scene, offering a fresh perspective that combines local traditions with cutting-edge design.

Lupe Gajardo’s 2015 Autumn-Winter Collection was a pivotal moment in her career, solidifying her reputation as a rising star in the fashion world. Her ability to merge the avant-garde with the familiar, and to create beauty from the ordinary, continues to set her apart as a designer to watch.