Lee Miller, con un casco prestado por el fotógrafo del ejército estadounidense Don Sykes (sargento), Normandía, Francia, 1944© LEE MILLER ARCHIVES
When we think of the Second World War, it is difficult to imagine that in the midst of chaos and devastation there was a woman who, camera in hand, captured some of the rawest and most revealing moments of the conflict. Also the most beautiful, revealing a new, more authentic side of the people who worked at the front. Lee Miller, one of the most daring photographers of the 20th century, comes to Barcelona with the exhibition War Chronicles, which can be visited at FotoNostrum until the 20th March, 2025.
Before becoming a war correspondent, Lee Miller was a haute couture model in New York, a muse to great artists such as Man Ray, and even a pioneer in photographic experimentation with the solarization technique. However, her restless spirit led her to reinvent herself again and again. It was in London, during the Luftwaffe bombings, that she found her true calling: telling the story with her lens.
Foto del reencuentro de Picasso y Lee Miller en 1944 tras la liberación de París. Ella llegó como reportera con el Ejército de los EE UU© LEE MILLER ARCHIVES
The exhibition
War Chronicles brings together 124 photographs, focusing on the period from 1940 to 1947, that trace Miller’s career as a war correspondent for the US Army. His lens captured the liberation of Paris, the concentration camps of Buchenwald and Dachau, and the scars of Europe after D-Day. His images are raw, moving and, above all, necessary to understand the impact of war.
Miller not only documented history, he also lived it first-hand. Images of that closeness stand out, such as the iconic image of Lee Miller in Hitler’s bathtub in Munich on the same day that the Nazi leader committed suicide, or a warm meeting during the liberation of Paris in 1944, where he met Pablo Picasso, with whom he had a friendship. “It’s incredible that the first soldier I see after the liberation is a woman, and that it’s you too!” the artist from Malaga exclaimed. Intimate portraits that Lee Miller also shared with Miró.
The exhibition also shows us her most versatile side, with some of her iconic fashion photographs that portray women in the 1940s, when they began to enter the workforce in factories, demonstrating that aesthetics and drama can coexist in the same work.
After the war, Lee Miller found solace in the kitchen, becoming a culinary innovator inspired by surrealism.
Niños celebrando la liberación de París en 1944 © LEE MILLER ARCHIVES
A family legacy
The exhibition also features Antony Penrose, son of Lee Miller and surrealist artist Roland Penrose, who attended the opening. Antony, a renowned filmmaker, writer and curator, has dedicated his life to preserving his mother’s legacy through the Lee Miller Archives and the Penrose Collection. His son discovered his mother’s legacy when she died. In the attic were 40,000 photographs were found depicting the horror of the Great War, which his mother had kept quiet about due to the psychological trauma that led to alcoholism and depression. “I had no idea about my mother’s past; my view of her changed completely,” Penrose confesses. Thanks to his tireless work, Miller’s images have been exhibited in museums around the world, allowing new generations to discover their importance in the history of photography and art.
Together withhis daughter Ami Antony Bouhassane, co-director of Farleys House & Gallery Ltd., he has worked to promote Miller’s work, ensuring that her story continues to inspire future artists and photographers. Both bring a unique and intimate testimony that enriches the exhibition, offering a personal look at the life and work of this legendary photographer.
Kate Winslet reproduce la célebre foto de Lee Miller en la bañera de Hitler para la película sobre la fotógrafa. ©SKY UK
A life of cinema
Lee Miller, starring Kate Winslet and directed by Ellen Kuras , will be released in Spain on the 7th March 2025. The feature film delves into the life of this extraordinary woman, exploring the challenges she faced in a world dominated by men. Winslet ‘s performance has been widely praised, offering a new perspective on Miller’s complex personality. In fact, in the exhibition Winslet herself recalls several scenes from the filming that have attempted to maintain the essence of Lee Miller’s photographs.
Lee Miller was much more than a witness to history: she was a protagonist who knew how to capture beauty and horror in equal measure. Now, Barcelona has the opportunity to rediscover her. The exhibition will be available at FotoNostrum , at Calle Diputació , 48 in Barcelona, and promises to be an essential experience for lovers of photography and history. Totally recommended!
Sorry, this entry is only available in European Spanish.
Mocha Mousse. Pic by Pantone
Imagine a creamy dessert that combines the aromas of cocoa, chocolate and coffee, with evocative textures and an intense brown tone that awakens both the sight and the palate. This suggestive image, which mixes everyday life and small pleasures, connects directly with the colour of the year 2025 chosen by Pantone: 17-1230 Mocha Mousse. This shade, described by the company as “a soft and evocative brown, but also intense and warm”, invites our senses to enjoy pleasure and exquisiteness.
A colour that opens the appetite
Mocha Mousse, suggestive and inspiring, takes over from Peach Fuzz 13-1023, the delicate peach shade that was the colour of the year 2024. “Inspired by our desire for everyday pleasures, 17-1230 Mocha Mousse expresses a level of thoughtful pleasure,” explains Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Colour Institute, as said in the new release announcing the long-awaited reveal. “Sophisticated and exuberant, yet an unpretentious classic, this colour expands our perception of browns as humble, understated tones to embrace aspiration and luxury. Infused with subtle elegance and earthy refinement, it presents a touch of understated, tasteful glamour,” says Eiseman.
Connecting with the origins
Although some on social media have criticised the choice of brown, associating it with the current period of instability and lack of authenticity, Pantone defends its decision by highlighting the growing search for connection with nature and the origins of humanity. “Characterised by its organic nature, 17-1230 Mocha Mousse honours and celebrates the sustenance offered by our physical environment. Infused with authenticity, it strikes a balance between the demands of modernity and the timeless beauty of artistic creation,” the company explains.
Laurie Pressman, vice president of the Pantone Colour Institute, describes Mocha Mousse as an extension of Peach Fuzz that came before it, sharing its essence of comfort but taking it a step further by including “the simple pleasures we can give away and share with others,” like a glass of mocha mousse. “The eternal quest for harmony permeates every aspect of our lives: our relationships, the work we do, our social connections, and the natural environment around us. This colour brings us contentment, inspiring a positive state of inner peace, calm, and balance, while attuning us to the world around us. Harmony encompasses both a culture of connection and unity and the synthesis of our mental, spiritual, and physical well-being,” Pressman details, highlighting how this shade reflects that longing for connection and balance.
How is the colour of the year created?
Pantone, the global authority on colour and a set of professional standards for the design community, began defining the colour of the year in 1999. The first choice was the iconic cerulean blue (Pantone 15-4020), a shade that achieved worldwide fame thanks to the film The Devil Wears Prada, released seven years later. In this film, Meryl Streep, as the feared Vogue editor, immortalised the colour with an unforgettable fashion speech to Anne Hathaway: “What you don’t know is that that sweater isn’t just blue. It’s not turquoise, and it’s not navy. It’s actually cerulean.”
The initial goal of this initiative was to generate conversation around colour, involving both the design community and colour enthusiasts. But choosing the colour of the year is not a simple or arbitrary process. Behind this decision there is a rigorous analysis. Each year, a committee of colour experts studies cultural, artistic and social trends worldwide to identify significant references. Based on this analysis, they select an existing colour from the Pantone catalog and name it with an easy-to-remember name.
Over the years, these choices have reflected the global socio-economic context: from Marsala, which evoked the world of wine in 2015, to the double choice of 2021 – Illuminating yellow and Ultimate Grey – which symbolised the challenges of the pandemic. In 2022, Very Peri, a bold lavender shade, connected the real world with the digital one. Beyond their beauty, these colours invite a reflection on the times we live in.
In 2010, Pantone expanded its reach beyond the design niche to connect with the general public, adapting to new creative disciplines inspired by colour. This is when two key initiatives emerged: the Pantone Colour Institute and the Colour of the World. the Year. These proposals not only investigate and promote the use of colour, but have also transformed the brand’s marketing strategy, turning it into a global trend. Today, the colour of the year directly influences product development and purchasing decisions in sectors such as fashion, decoration, design and advertising.
The Pantone guide, which began with 500 colours for the graphic arts, now has more than 2,000 references. Every 18 months, new and more precise shades are added, reflecting the evolution of colour in our daily lives. Today, Pantone is a multinational with a strong global presence. Since its acquisition by X-Rite, a company specialising in colour management, the company has grown exponentially. With 17 offices around the world, Pantone markets everything from its famous guides to branded products and strategic alliances. Recent examples include collaborations with Motorola for smartphones, special editions of Jägermeister bottles , and even coffee capsules in partnership with Nespresso, a partnership that raises the question: have these capsules inspired this year’s colour choice?
In 2025, to celebrate the 26th anniversary of the Pantone Colour of the Year, the company has taken the colour beyond its guides, highlighting it at global events and experiences. From New York and London to Shanghai and Mumbai, Pantone has curated public spaces and gatherings to make the colour of the year accessible to everyone.
The gentle elegance of Mocha Mousse: applications in fashion and design
In the fashion world, Mocha Mousse is positioned as a highly versatile neutral shade. Dubbed “the colour of unpretentious elegance,” this shade stands out for its ability to create warm, minimalist looks that blend with different skin tones, creating a chromatic camouflage effect. The colour of the year 2025 also redefines our perception of brown, taking it from humble and earthy to luxurious and aspirational.
Translating this to the textile world, Mocha Mousse offers endless possibilities. Its sensorial warmth is reflected in fabrics with a delicate touch such as cashmere, angora, soft velvet and furry textures that envelop and comfort. It also shines in lighter materials such as airy chiffons, fluid satins or knits that provide movement and draped elegance. This shade, imbued with earthy refinement, embodies an organic and authentic luxury, promoting minimalist looks that opt for simplicity without artifice.
Mocha Mousse also adapts to various textures and finishes. From matte surfaces that highlight its naturalness to shiny or metallic finishes that give it a sophisticated touch, this colour works as a perfect base for bold colour combinations or monochromatic looks full of depth.
In decoration and interior design, Pantone 17-1230 Mocha Mousse connects with our desire for well-being and comfort. This earthy and refined brown brings a feeling of warm home, whether on floors, painted walls or decorative elements. Its presence stands out in natural materials such as wood, stone, rattan, wicker or leather, offering a balance between sophistication and homely warmth.
At Gratacós, we have selected some key fabrics that connect this colour of the year with our new collection. From luxurious textures to versatile finishes, you will find inspiration to bring Mocha Mousse to your fashion and design projects.
Irving Penn.Centennial by Fundación MOP
He was an icon of fashion photography and his revolutionary vision can now be remembered in Spain. The Marta Ortega Pérez Foundation (MOP Foundation) takes a further step in creating bridges between photography and fashion with the exhibition Irving Penn: Centennial. This is the largest retrospective dedicated to the talented American photographer ever presented in Spain. A symbolic exhibition that covers the 70 years of his prolific career, which has already been shown in New York, Paris and Berlin.
Irving Penn: Centennial is an exhibition organized by The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, in collaboration with the Irving Penn Foundation and curated by Jeff L. Rosenheim , Joyce Frank Menschel Curator in Charge of Photography at The Met . The exhibition can be visited free of charge until the 1st May 2025 at the MOP Foundation exhibition centre, located in the port area of A Coruña.
A journey into the soul of Irving Penn’s photography
Created in 2017 to mark the centenary of the artist’s birth, Irving Penn: Centennial is a tribute to his prolific career in all its breadth, from his beginnings in the late 1930s to the early years of the 21st century. What is most interesting about the exhibition is that it allows us to delve deeper into the photographer’s work beyond his best-known projects. This is precisely the aim of the exhibition: to cover all facets of Penn’s work, including fashion photography, delicate female nudes, floral compositions and still lifes, the still lifes of everyday objects that he was fond of throughout his life.
The exhibition also highlights the portraits of personalities who made him famous, such as his muse Lisa Fonssagrives, Pablo Picasso and Marlene Dietrich, as well as his photographic series documenting ordinary people captured in different corners of the world. It also includes unique pieces such as the backdrop of his studio and unpublished works that allow the visitor to delve into his creative process. Altogether, the exhibition brings together more than 160 works that offer a complete overview of the career of an artist who revolutionised the visual language of the 20th century.
Irving Penn.Centennial by Fundación MOP
A democratic look
The exhibition is the perfect excuse to decipher Irving Penn’s legacy and understand his role in fashion photography, a field that transcended to create a unique visual universe. His motto, “less is more”, remains a reference for artists and creatives, reminding us that beauty can be found in the essential and the simple.
Vogue magazine redefined visual standards through a style that combined simplicity with sophistication. His images, characterized by a minimalist use of space and neutral backgrounds, transformed the perception of commercial and fine art photography. With an avant-garde approach, Penn turned the everyday into art, immortalizing everything from iconic figures such as Audrey Hepburn and Miles Davis to objects as common as cigarette butts.
The exhibition also highlights his technical mastery: Penn revived techniques such as platinum-palladium printing and experimented with materials to achieve a unique quality in his photographs. Each image reveals his ability to capture the essence of his subjects, transcending documentation and creating pieces charged with emotion and symbolism.
Supplementary materials
To enrich the experience, the MOP Foundation has exclusively published a catalogue in Spanish of the exhibition, a must for admirers of Penn’s work and 20th-century photography. This volume brings together almost 300 images, including iconic and previously unpublished works, accompanied by essays that explore the main themes of his career.
In addition, as every year, visitors will be able to enjoy a new set designed specifically for the exhibition, both inside the warehouse and in the outer space. The venue has also reopened its bookstore, specialising in photography, fashion, design and other artistic disciplines.
A legacy that endures
Irving Penn: Centennial exhibition becomes the fourth major retrospective promoted by the MOP Foundation, reaffirming its commitment to photography, fashion and its connection with A Coruña. Since its creation, the Foundation has promoted highly relevant exhibitions, such as Peter Lindbergh. Untold Stories (2021-22), Steven Meisel 1993: A Year in Photographs (2022-23) and Helmut Newton: Fact & Fiction (2023-24).
Photos by:
Irving Penn. Picture of self, Cuzco, 1948© The Irving Penn Foundation
Irving Penn. Marlene Dietrich, New York, 1948 © The Irving Penn Foundation
Irving Penn. Woman in Chicken Hat (Lisa Fonssagrives-Penn), New York, 1949 © The Irving Penn Foundation
Irving Penn. Naomi Sims in Scarf, New York, ca. 1969 © The Irving Penn Foundation
The Christmas season is here, and with it comes the first flashes of lights in the streets, company dinners, intimate gatherings with friends and family, and big celebrations that invite us to show off our best clothes. It’s the perfect time to stand out with special garments that stand out for their elegance and sophistication.
At Gratacós, we understand this need and, therefore, each collection includes carefully designed fabrics, made with the premium quality that special occasions demand. In this new blog entry, we want to guide you through our star fabrics so that you shine during the holidays, whether in a subtle way or with a dazzling touch. Discover their characteristics and learn how to make the most of each one for your most special moments. We will tell you about it below!
Velvet
Few fabrics inspire as much fascination as velvet. Its soft texture, with a short pile surface that changes direction when brushed, and its ability to delicately reflect light make it an irresistible classic for the holiday season. Plus, its slight elasticity makes it perfect for creating elegant and comfortable garments that stand out at any event.
Velvet evokes instant luxury and is incredibly versatile, especially for evening looks. From long evening gowns to full suits with fitted blazers and palazzo pants, this fabric adds a touch of sophistication to every look. The best part? At Gratacós we offer you a wide range of shades so you can find the one that best suits your style and the occasion.
Discover all the possibilities of velvet here.
Silk
Since ancient times, silk has been a symbol of luxury and sophistication. This natural fabric is distinguished by its extreme softness, natural shine and fluid drape, making it the perfect choice for garments that seek to elegantly adapt to the body. Silk has an impeccable drape, ideal for dresses and blouses that, without losing their shape, envelop with unique delicacy.
For the Christmas festivities, nothing beats a long silk dress with a lingerie style in metallic tones or deep red, ideal for a New Year’s party. If you prefer a more groundbreaking style, a silk blouse combined with high-waisted trousers creates a sophisticated and modern look. Another must-have? A long silk skirt, combined with a knitted or cashmere sweater, for an outfit that perfectly balances femininity and comfort.
Discover our silk fabrics here.
Brocade
Ornate and full of character, brocade evokes baroque splendour with its homage to excess and intricate floral or geometric patterns woven in metallic threads. With its coarse texture and imposing presence, this fabric is perfect for creating structured garments that stand out on any special occasion.
What possibilities does it offer? A brocade dress is the perfect choice for very formal events, but this fabric can also be adapted to a more contemporary style. For example, a brocade jacket combined with high-waisted jeans creates a modern and sophisticated look with an unexpected twist. In addition, brocade is ideal for striking layers such as coats, jackets or blazers that add a regal air to any outfit.
Opt for a brocade garment for Christmas Eve dinners or events where you want to convey elegance and a subtle touch of royalty.
Jacquard knitting suggestions that you will fall in love with here.
Sequins
If there is a fabric that captures the essence of the festive season, it is sequins. This timeless classic reflects light in a spectacular way, becoming the centre of attention. But at Gratacós we go one step further: this season, sequins are reinvented with maxi versions and combinations of 2 or 3 colours that create irresistible and unique mosaics.
Do you already know how to combine them? If not, here are some ideas: go for a head-to-toe shiny dress to dazzle at any event or dare to try less conventional options, such as jackets with metallic embellishments or even accessories such as bags. And if you are looking for an infallible look, a midi sequin dress in gold or silver tones is perfect to stand out on New Year’s Eve with elegance and glamour.
Discover our most original sequins here.
Taffeta
When we think of glamorous pieces with volume and structure, taffeta is the undisputed star. This lightweight yet firm fabric stands out for its rigidity, which allows it to hold its shape, and its subtle sheen, making it a classic choice for ball gowns and evening wear.
Design ideas? Taffeta is ideal for dresses with full skirts or layered details that need structure. Bright hues like silver or emerald further enhance its elegance, making it the perfect choice for high-end events like Christmas galas or New Year’s Eve dinners in luxurious settings.
Discover our seasonal taffetas here.
And if you’re looking for something even more special, explore our premium collection with fabrics designed for unforgettable occasions. Plus, our surprise boxes with four fabrics from past collections will inspire you to create unique and magical looks for this holiday season.
Miércoles 30 octubre 2024
Sorry, this entry is only available in European Spanish.
Collage: 1. Rodarte, 2. Gonçalo Peixoto, 3. Mariano Moreno, 4. ON RUSH, 5. Joplin Atelier, 6. Acuamona. Courtesy of the brands
Maroon, scarlet, burgundy, wine, cherry… There are many ways to refer to the range of dark reds with a blue or violet touch. This range of possibilities encompasses a captivating colour, synonymous with luxury, power and status, which seduces with its warmth and has fascinated both designers and artists throughout the centuries. This autumn 2024, it is once again taking centre stage on the catwalks, reaffirming its place as an elegant, versatile and personality-filled colour. Some call it “the new neutral”, but why does this dark shade of red have such a timeless, almost bewitching appeal? We will explore its history, psychology and the reason for its triumphant return in this season’s collections.
Origin of Colour. On Wine, Clothing and Theatricality
The garnet or burgundy colour Marsala is named after the famous red wines from the Burgundy region of France, known for their refinement. This connection makes it a colour associated with wealth, luxury and sophistication. In 2015, Pantone elevated this association – between fashion and wine – by crowning Marsala as the hue that would guide industrial design, fashion, beauty, furniture and interior decoration. For that year, the international colour authority imagined a world tinged with “a warm, yet elegant hue that is universally attractive and easily transposed into multidisciplinary arts”. Pantone considered Marsala to be equally attractive to men and women, capable of moving and awakening the sense of taste, as well as inciting creativity and experimentation with colour.
If we look back in history, the use of burgundy in textiles and clothing goes back much further than its contemporary name. Since ancient times, dark red dyes were prized for their rarity and the status they conferred on those who could afford to wear them. During the Middle Ages and Renaissance, burgundy dyes were extremely expensive due to the rare ingredients needed to produce them, such as the Tyrian purple snail or madder root. Consequently, this colour was reserved for aristocracy and royalty, who wore garments in dark reddish tones to symbolise power and authority. At the court of Henry VIII, for example, burgundy was a shade frequently used by high nobility, such as Mary Tudor, who wore an iconic burgundy velvet dress at her wedding to Louis XII of France in 1514. Another historical reference is found in the burgundy velvet and satin dresses worn by European royal women in the 18th century, such as Marie Antoinette, whose taste for rich, deep colours set a trend in court fashion.
In modern times, burgundy remains associated with theatricality and drama. Consider the shade of a theatre curtain and drapery. In cinema, this vibrant shade has been immortalised in films such as Gone with the Wind, where Scarlett O’Hara wears a majestic dress in this shade, designed to convey both power and sensuality. The colour has also been a key element in contemporary films such as Moulin Rouge, where it is used to enhance the drama and passion of the characters.
Why is it back in fashion this Autumn 2024? From the catwalk to the streets
Burgundy combines the passion of red with the depth of brown, evoking luxury, ambition and power. It is a versatile shade that suits different skin tones: on light skin, it highlights its luminosity; on dark skin, it provides sophistication without being strident. Its intensity varies depending on the material it is used on, acquiring a visual texture that can be modern and minimalist in fabrics such as satin, or luxurious and opulent in velvet.
Garnet is the star of the autumn-winter collections, both in monochrome looks and in daring combinations. From sixties trench coats combined with platform loafers and structured bags, as proposed by Sabato De Sarno for Gucci, to tailored suits in the collections of Roksanda and Ferragamo . In a more casual version, Lacoste opts for jumpsuits combined with oversized coats, creating a mix between comfort and style.
This shade also lights up autumn evenings, where fitted leather microdresses stand out in the collections of Thierry Mugler and Ermanno Scervino. Other proposals include bow tops and pleated trousers in the collection of Philosophy di Lorenzo Serafini, providing a second skin in burgundy that redefines discreet luxury. In addition, burgundy is combined with neutral tones, such as beige or midnight blue, in proposals by Victoria Beckham and Khaite, or with bolder colours such as fuchsia, in a bold bet championed by Pierre Cardin.
And in fabrics… What do we recommend?
At Gratacós, we fall in love with burgundy, a classic that never goes out of style. This shade is enhanced in luxurious fabrics that allow you to play with texture and movement. To get the most out of it, we recommend these materials:
1. Silks and satins: Ideal for elegant garments with a fluid drape that enhances the sensuality of the garnet.
2. Wool cloths: Perfect for coats and outerwear, transmitting warmth and sophistication in winter looks.
3. Velvet: Provides depth and a luxurious air that turns any garment into a special piece.
4. Lace and tulle: For romantic and feminine looks, ideal for evening events or more delicate garments.
Check out our seasonal collection in our online store and discover the fabrics that best suit your style. Don’t miss the opportunity to be captivated by this timeless colour!
Jueves 26 septiembre 2024
Featured in the collage: Lola Casademunt by Maite, Fely Campo, Álvaro Calafat, JCPajares, and Malne for MBFWMadrid. Courtesy of the brands.
At Gratacós, we are always keeping an eye on the most important catwalk shows in Spanish fashion, looking for those surprising looks that are created with our fabrics. We love to see how each designer adds their personal touch and transforms our fabrics into authentic works of art in motion. This constant search for creativity and innovation inspires us deeply.
At the latest edition of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Madrid, held in September 2024, we confirmed once again that many designers trust in the quality and versatility of our fabrics to bring their collections to life. This year, artisanal and sustainable fabrics have taken centre stage, highlighting a clear focus on recycled, natural and technological materials. Not only do they make garments look amazing, but they also tell stories full of purpose.
Here are some of the most outstanding looks from the Spring -Summer 2025 collections, where our fabrics have been an essential part. It is fascinating to see how each designer contributes their unique vision and plays with textures to set trends that do not go unnoticed.
Alvaro Calafat
In his new collection ODDITIES ODYSSEY, Álvaro Calafat takes us on a journey into the past, evoking the old cupboards of curiosities where the strange and the fascinating coexist. Inspired by collectible objects and mysterious images, the designer from Malaga has created a proposal that mixes the classic with the innovative, breaking down the barriers between fashion and art.
The standout pieces include impressive volumes and constructions using 3D printing, one of the brand’s hallmarks. Hand-made textures and techniques such as cyanotype add a handcrafted touch that reinforces the collection’s unique aesthetic. Each garment becomes a canvas for experimentation, where the surreal comes to life through appliqués and embroidery.
The firm maintains its commitment to sustainability, emphasizing natural and high-quality fabrics such as silk, cotton, leather and tencel. The brand’s classic bomber jackets are reinterpreted with surreal details, elevating their design to another level. This collection reflects Álvaro Calafat’s commitment to innovation and respect for the environment, always with that air of mystery and sophistication that characterizes the firm.
Fely Campo
With “ Lei Zu”, Fely Campo invites us on an aesthetic journey along the mythical Silk Route, fusing history, legend and fashion. This luxury ready-to-wear collection features 29 sophisticated looks, starting with the masterful use of tweed and intertwining with artisanal silks brought from Guangzhou. Each garment celebrates textile richness, where opulence and subtlety meet.
The volumes of taffeta, the lightness of organza and printed brocades combine to create pieces that stand out for their precision in cuts and careful silhouettes. The collection begins with more structured shapes and tailored suits, evolving towards a more fluid aesthetic with shirt dresses and maxi lace kaftans that mesmerize with their movement.
The colour palette of “ Lei Zu” is a visual poem: crystal blues, pearly whites and soft lilacs mingle with acidic limes and radiant pistachios. With golden brushstrokes on Chinese silks, light plays a fundamental role in this proposal, which goes beyond being just a collection; it is a tribute to the essence of fashion and the magic of the Silk Road.
JCPajares
JCPAJARES surprises us with “ANNUAL 25,” its fifth annual collection, where the essence of summer and winter intertwine in designs that celebrate craftsmanship and innovation, all with a strong environmental commitment. This proposal highlights the new artisan luxury, the result of a collaboration with master craftsmen from Castilla-La Mancha, which revives centuries-old techniques in danger of extinction, giving them a contemporary feel.
The collection is a true feast for the senses, with materials including ceramics, blown glass, hand embroidery, crochet and painted prints, all crafted on historic looms. Spanish wool, often considered waste, is brought back to life, while leather and wicker accessories add a unique touch to each look.
“ANNUAL 25” is an ode to sustainability, where social responsibility and animal welfare are fundamental pillars. Oversized silhouettes and innovative patterns combine with prints evoking sunsets, creating pieces perfect for both day and night. The collection includes feathers, ruffles, cut-outs and goth details, made of wool cloths, silk crepes, taffetas and faded denims, along with tulles and fabrics adorned with rhinestones and sequins with floral motifs.
In each garment of “ANNUAL 25,” craftsmanship and modern aesthetics merge, offering a visual and sensorial experience that highlights the quality of the materials and real traceability, ideal for those looking for unique pieces with history.
Lola Casademunt by Maite
LOLA CASADEMUNT BY MAITE ‘s new collection is inspired by the rich Japanese culture, with geishas as muses. This proposal captures the femininity and delicacy that characterize these emblematic figures, bringing them to life through garments adorned with floral details and glitter, in a vibrant palette that evokes the iconic kimonos.
Fluid and delicate fabrics are combined with more structured and casual materials, creating a dialogue between tradition and modernity. Stitched collars, embroidery and bows intertwine classic elements of geisha costumes with a contemporary style, while wide volumes on skirts and trousers and flowing sleeves add movement and elegance to each look.
Fitted dresses and geometric patterns enhance the silhouette, adding a touch of sophistication. Accessories are essential in this proposal, including okobo, traditional sandals, and sashes that imitate the obis of kimonos, all designed with the colors and prints characteristic of the collection.
“Spring/Summer 2025” by Lola Casademunt by Maite offers a contemporary take on Japanese aesthetics, fusing the traditional with the modern in a fresh and sophisticated proposal. Each piece not only celebrates cultural heritage, but also adapts to the modern lifestyle, making this collection an ideal choice for those seeking elegance and distinction in their outfits.
Malne
Malne, the luxury label created by renowned designers Paloma Álvarez and Juanjo Mánez, has presented “De Rerum Natura.” Inspired by the poem by Roman poet Titus Lucretius, this collection for the upcoming summer season celebrates nature and is a journey toward happiness and environmental awareness.
The proposal focuses on epicurean fashion, using natural fabrics such as linen, raffia and silk, as well as animal and floral prints that evoke the essence of spring. Each garment reflects freedom and connection with the outdoors, ideal at this time of year when it invites you to enjoy leisure time away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
The silhouettes are soft and fluid, combining haute couture elements with a feminine approach. Malne pays homage to classic corsetry, using lace and corsets that wrap the body with elegance. The firm remains faithful to its principles of creating unique fashion with an authorial message, highlighting its commitment to craftsmanship and slow fashion, becoming one of the pioneering brands of the movement in Spain.
“De Rerum Natura” is not just a collection, but an invitation to reconnect with nature and enjoy life to the fullest. Each piece in this limited edition collection is designed for clients seeking luxury and exclusivity, reaffirming Malne ‘s position in the world of high-end ready -to- wear.
Creative collage featuring looks by Marta Martí, By Sophie, and Mariano Moreno.
Traditionally associated with spring, floral prints are stepping out of their comfort zone to take on a new role during the cold season as well. This trend demonstrates its beauty, versatility and timelessness, characteristics that are ideal for a wardrobe that is not so concerned with passing trends, but with a style that lasts and is therefore immune to the passage of time.
This autumn, flowers are once again taking centre stage, proving that they can also provide warmth, colour and elegance during the colder months. An example of this is the new September window display that we have just launched in our space in Barcelona, embraced in warm colours ranging from brown to maroon and orange, with leaf and flower prints evoking the beginning of autumn.
Below, we will explore the origin of floral prints, their evolution in the fashion world, current trends and how major brands have reinterpreted this trend in their most recent collections. Without forgetting, of course, the new fabrics and items that we already have available in our online store.
Origin and popularization of floral prints
Floral prints have a long history dating back centuries. Originating in Asia, particularly China and Japan, textiles with floral motifs arrived in Europe via the Silk Route. In the 17th century, Indian fabrics with floral prints, known as “chintz”, became popular in Europe, sparking a trend that has continued to evolve.
Their popularisation in contemporary fashion is historically more recent. The rise of floral prints can be traced back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when the Art Nouveau movement adopted flowers as a key motif in textile design. However, it was in the 1960s and 1970s that these prints really reached a large number of people, thanks to the hippie and bohemian countercultural movements, which embraced nature as a form of personal expression and a symbol of rebellion against the values of society at the time.
Why do flowers never go out of style?
As we mentioned at the beginning of the article, floral prints have stood the test of time thanks to their versatility , adding a touch of romance and femininity. These designs can be adapted to a wide variety of styles, fabrics and garments, being essential both in a light summer dress and in an elegant transitional jacket. Floral prints bring freshness to any outfit. In addition, there is an emotional connection with nature that awakens feelings such as love, renewal, life and serenity. In a world increasingly dominated by technology and artificiality, floral designs connect us with nature and remind us of the ephemeral beauty of flowers.
Floral prints are also incredibly adaptable to different styles and eras. Among the most recognizable categories are:
1. Abstract Flowers: Modern designs with artistic strokes that mix colours and unusual shapes.
2. Botanical flowers: Motifs that imitate nature or scientific illustrations, with a more realistic style.
3. Vintage Flowers: Inspired by the 1960s and 1970s, with warm colours and psychedelic shapes.
4. Dark flowers: With deep tones and dark backgrounds, which provide an air of sophistication and mystery.
Another reason why floral prints never go out of style is that they are an expression of individuality and define each person’s style. A bold and striking floral print in vibrant tones is not the same as a more subtle and delicate one in neutral tones. In between the two extremes, there is an infinite variety of options to choose from.
The beauty of flowers has also been a recurring theme in the inspiration of artists throughout history, from the Renaissance, through botanical art and the vision of the Impressionists, to the most avant-garde designers. Today, it continues to be an inexhaustible source of inspiration in various contemporary disciplines. In fact, in the field of fashion, practically no collection of the main luxury brands completely omits floral prints. And finally, a less obvious aspect: floral prints are flattering for all ages . They are visually pleasing and harmonious patterns that bring joy, vitality and freshness to the face, raising self-esteem. For this reason, floral prints remain a constant trend in all seasons.
How are floral prints being worn this season?
For the autumn-winter 2024/2025 season, floral prints are presented in innovative ways. Key combinations include layering and contrasting, mixing floral pieces with garments in textures such as wool, leather or denim for a modern contrast. The “total floral look ” also stands out, i.e. flowers from head to toe through long dresses and coordinated outfits with floral prints of different sizes. In the cold season, flowers predominate on dark backgrounds in shades such as burgundy, olive green, mustard and navy blue, perfect for autumn. In addition, accessories with floral details, such as bags, scarves and shoes, complement the more sober outfits and bring a fresh touch.
Discover the floral prints that suit your tastes and needs in our new season catalogue. Here you can find what suits you best!
The Olympic Issue. A stunning editorial by Mariano Moreno and Vogue World Paris 2024.
Fashion, a reflection of each society, is present in all areas and silently analyzes what it represents. At the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, one of the largest showcases in the world, it could not be less. Millions of eyes of different nationalities have observed the presentations of the uniforms in recent days, and will analyze, without being experts in the matter, the details of the opening show with their clothing created for the occasion, as well as the outfits of the athletes who will star in each of the sporting feats. We are curious by nature, and the Olympic Games teach us that style does not have to be at odds with the competitive spirit.
What must be considered?
Uniforms represent the media focus where the relationship between fashion and sport becomes more evident, especially in recent years. This relationship is beneficial as long as one does not engulf the other, something that these days is giving something to talk about both for its successes and for some mistakes, generating a large number of memes. Behind every uniform is a needle: the participation of a renowned designer or brand that promises to take the relationship between fashion and sport to a new level. Although aesthetics are key when representing the culture and style of each country, we must never forget the main objectives of these special suits: comfort and functionality. An Olympic uniform must be practical. It is at the service of athletes and its mission is to ensure the best performance. Furthermore, they are not worn by models with normative and standardized measurements, quite the opposite. Athletes champion a diversity of bodies with diverse morphologies and this physical diversity must be taken into account when looking for a design that feels good and is comfortable. That said, combining aesthetics with functionality is no easy task, and this is reflected in the results. Everyone wants to project a cool and modern image of their country, after all, athletes are the representatives of their land in the eyes of the world, but no one wants to look ridiculous or wear clothes that look like a moving flag. Therefore, the uniform also plays an important role in the confidence and self-esteem of each athlete.
Most representative uniforms of the Olympic Games
The different delegations have presented the uniforms that their athletes will wear throughout the competition. The proposals are very varied, seeking this perfect formula between modernity and identity, and aesthetics with functionality. Some countries, such as Italy and France, have taken the opportunity to show the great fashion design potential they have. Other delegations, such as Spain or Japan, have presented more practical proposals that are far from design. We review the most interesting proposals without overlooking some successes and errors.
As host country, France has collaborated with Le Coq Sportif and Stéphane Ashpool to design a uniform adapted to both Olympic and Paralympic athletes, reflecting the essence of the culture and love of sport of the host country. The nineties-inspired t-shirts and sweatshirts are already a bestseller by achieving a fusion between fashion, sports and patriotism without fanfare. In the United Kingdom they have opted for a brand that represents English design and elegance: Ben Sherman. Dressed by mods in the 60s, this brand has always been characterized by encapsulating the magic of the unique British style. In addition to the colours of the Union Jack, the brand has added flowers to almost all the pieces in the Olympic and Paralympic collection.
Italy has trusted one of the great names in the history of fashion: Giorgio Armani. Their designs present a set of elegant and minimalist garments with navy blue as the main colour. On the sweatshirts, the word “Italy” in large white letters captures all the attention. Some critical voices claim that the result has been a bit dull, due to high expectations. The United States has once again trusted Ralph Lauren, a name synonymous with American fashion, to design its team’s uniforms. It has been doing so since 2008. This time, with a focus on sustainability, the uniforms are made from recycled materials, proving that eco-friendly fashion can also be stylish. Red, white and blue accents pay homage to the American flag, while modern silhouettes ensure maximum performance and comfort. Although the official uniform has been well received, Nike’s women’s track and field jersey has not been without controversy. Lauren Fleshman , former United States champion in the 5,000 meters, criticized the technical suit for its poor coverage.
Spain has opted for sustainability as a central axis. The Joma brand, in charge of the official equipment of Spanish athletes, has designed a collection that fuses tradition with modernity, making garments in high-performance fabrics inspired by the carnation, capturing the essence of Spanish culture with a contemporary touch. The kit has received mixed reviews: while some praise the chosen aesthetic, others compare it to the Iberia uniform. In Japan, faithful to their minimalism, they have trusted Asics, a flagship of the Japanese country, with a non-artificial proposal so that all the attention goes to the achievements of the athletes.
Other uniforms that have received good reviews have been those of Ethiopia. Adidas has created a uniform with a current and modern design for Ethiopian athletes. In Canada , Lululemon has designed a summer uniform focusing on adaptability, thermal comfort, fit and functionality, and national pride. The gender-neutral kit combines functionality and style through innovative construction and high-performance fabrics, with modern silhouettes and Canadian-inspired prints. In Australia, some critics have pointed out the length of the kit skirts and trousers. The Australian uniforms, designed by Sports Craft, present some similarities with Spanish clothing.
Finally, although in stylistic matters the colours vary, there is no doubt that some countries have won public opinion with sports uniforms that deserve an Olympic medal. This has been the case of Haiti. Haitian-Italian designer Stella Jean has collaborated with painter Philippe Dodard to create designs for the delegation that combine elegance and creativity. In terms of uniforms, Mongolia has presented the best design for its delegation, with intricately embroidered vests, pleated tunics and accessories inspired by traditional clothing. The designs are the work of Michel & Amazonka, a Ulaanbaatar -based brand that produces couture and ready-to-wear garments that “express the essence of Mongolian tradition and culture” in what the brand calls a “light contemporary”.