Primal Instinct
Review of Area Spring 2024 Fashion Show
By Mario Abad
THE COLLECTION
THE VIBE
THE THEME
The use of large bones placed in suggestive areas signaled an almost caveman-like quality to the collection this season, which designer Piotrek Panszczyk called an exploration of the primal instinct and its evolution through fashion history, a sort of “Flinstones Couture” feeling. The materials gradually became more ornate as a representation of aristocratic symbols, wealth, and excess.
THE BUZZWORDS
Primal. Excess. Mystique.
THE SHOWSTOPPER
Look # 6
The coat looks like a regal sable coat at first glance but upon closer inspection is actually just printed with the effect to make it look like fur, one of several looks in the collection to achieve this effect.
THE DIRECTION
THE QUOTE
This season we explored the idea of the primal instinct and its evolution through fashion history. In this collection, we try to break down those notions and redefine these symbols through alternative material explorations.
THE WRAP UP
Area is one of the few New York brands to really lean in on its statement-dressing ethos as evident from the guests in the front row wearing the label’s dazzling, crystal-studded creations and hyper-sexy dresses. It’s refreshing to see Panszczyk use storytelling to full effect when doing shows and embrace a theme that he can play on while still surprising and delighting viewers with the unexpected.
