If Monica Paolini and Sean Monahan’s Pre-Fall Collection Could Talk…
If Monica Paolini and Sean Monahan’s pre-fall collection could talk, it would speak with an English accent—and not just because the look book was shot in the regal environs of Hampton Court. There was, for starters, a touch of ’80s Laura Ashley to the cropped, square-cut blazers; a rugby shirt and dress made in a silky material rather than jersey added an element of prep, which has roots in the British public school system; and, while unintentional, the recurring use of blue and white could serve as a reminder that Britain was a sea power at the time the palace was built. Accommodating the rain were a series of Sea-ified ponchos. One had cutwork, another featured appliqués inspired by vintage tobacco labels, still another was embroidered with buttons referencing the tradition of Pearly kings and queens.
On another note, Paolini expanded on the lingerie theme she introduced last season. These silky and seductive pieces hold space alongside garments that are more sports oriented (see the nylon track pants with lacy cutouts at the side seams). This dance between innerwear and activewear is one that we see being choreographed on a wider scale throughout the industry.
Monica Paolini and Sean Monahan’s pre-fall collection for this season is a delightful blend of English heritage and modern sensibilities. Shot against the backdrop of Hampton Court, the collection exudes a sophisticated charm with a touch of ’80s Laura Ashley influence. The cropped, square-cut blazers and silky rugby shirt and dress pay homage to British prep style, while the use of blue and white colors evokes Britain’s maritime history.
To combat the rainy British weather, the designers introduced Sea-ified ponchos with intricate details such as cutwork, vintage tobacco label appliqués, and embroidered buttons inspired by Pearly kings and queens tradition. This attention to detail and historical references adds a unique touch to the collection.
A standout feature of the collection is the integration of lingerie-inspired pieces alongside sportswear elements. The silky and seductive lingerie pieces complement the more athletic nylon track pants with lacy cutouts, creating a harmonious balance between innerwear and activewear. This trend of blending different styles is reflective of the industry’s evolving approach to fashion.
Monica Paolini and Sean Monahan have once again showcased their talent for creating elegant and versatile pieces that seamlessly blend tradition with modernity. Their pre-fall collection is a testament to their creativity and ability to reinterpret classic styles for the contemporary fashion landscape.
