Has there ever been a more impressive press launch than that of Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey? IMAX screenings in New York City are already fully booked for mid-August, a month after its initial release. Although Greek designer Mary Katrantzou has not yet watched the film, its impact is evident in her latest resort collection. “We aimed to create prints of fantastical mythological worlds,” she explained. “It’s something we haven’t explored in a while.”
Recently, Katrantzou has assumed the role of creative director of accessories at Bulgari. At her own fashion label, she has reduced her output to two seasons annually, concentrating mainly on florals and animal prints that appeal to customers. With this collection, she is venturing once more into ambitious designs, featuring embellishments and artistic prints of expansive landscapes.
The opening dress in the lookbook draws inspiration from her fall 2019 line, incorporating rich layers of ruffles. Some standout pieces include fully sequined breastplates with circular designs that naturally create cut-outs at the sides, set above sleek skirts. Other dresses emphasize distinctive prints. “I wanted something that teeters on hyper-real and hyper-digital, with an intensity that’s truly elevated,” she remarked. To further the analogy, these garments are more suited to Helen of Troy or Clytemnestra than to the humble, homebound Penelope.
