The 1970s glam is making a comeback in the world of fashion, and Carla Fernández showcased this trend in a unique way at Mexico Fashion Week. Instead of the traditional runway, Fernández chose to unveil her latest collection, Diva, at a century-old brewery in Mexico City. This industrial setting provided the perfect backdrop for a collection that paid tribute to iconic figures such as David Bowie, Cher, and Juan Gabriel, who redefined freedom and glamour in both fashion and music.
The show was divided into three acts, each representing a different icon. The first act honored David Bowie, with models strutting down the runway in shirt-dresses embroidered with the iconic lightning bolt from the Aladdin Sane album. Fernández put her own twist on Bowie’s legendary balloon pants, turning them into traditional chaps inspired by pre-Hispanic fertility figurines. Zigzag side panels on pants added a touch of Bowie-inspired glam.
The second act celebrated Cher, with the song “Believe” setting the tone for a collection that exuded femininity and empowerment. Fernández’s signature designs, characterized by square and rectangular textiles and artisanal embroidery, took on a bolder look with vibrant fringes and eye-catching wrap dresses. The incorporation of side cut-outs added a modern twist to the collection.
When asked about her inspiration for connecting glam rock with Mexican craftsmanship, Fernández explained that she envisioned these icons mingling in Ciudad Juárez, creating music and sharing stories. Her goal was to infuse these global figures with a Mexican identity, resulting in a unique blend of glam and charro styles. The collection was a fusion of glam from Ahuirán, Michoacán, paying homage to Mexico’s rich cultural heritage.
The final act honored Juan Gabriel, the late Mexican singer/songwriter, with models donning ponchos and charro pants adorned with golden thread. A cape embellished with silver “milagritos” added an extra touch of glam to the collection. The show concluded with a bride wearing a dress that cleverly incorporated ice-cold beers, a nod to the brewery setting.
Carla Fernández’s Diva collection at Mexico Fashion Week was a stunning tribute to iconic figures who have left a lasting impact on the world of fashion and music. By infusing their legacies with Mexican craftsmanship and culture, Fernández created a collection that was both timeless and contemporary. The glam of the 1970s has truly made a triumphant return in this one-of-a-kind showcase.
