Dorhout Mees Catwalk Fashion Show Paris Womenswear FW2016

Dutch galore on the Paris Runway! After Viktor & Rolf, Jan Taminiau, Iris van Herpen and Ilja Visser, now it was up to Dorhout Mees. And there she was, Esther Louise Dorhout Mees showing her collection in the big arena, rubbing shoulders with industry heavyweights like Galliano and Givenchy. Was she still able to breath and smile? Oh, yes!

She herself describes her signature style as a crossing between sculptural silhouettes and femininity but still wearable and sophisticated.This collection was called ‘nubivagant’ which means nothing but wandering in the clouds, moving through the air. Oh, how we wish we could sometimes, especially in these creations. The theme echoed in her geometric shapes, curvy lines, clever folds, superimposed layers, natural prints and use of colours and luxury fabrics. The interaction and contrasts in form and material was pretty interesting. Like heavy, uniform materials against soft and transparant fabrics, the screaming red with its grey and black counterparts, cut-outs in places you would never expect them when it comes to form and function (although, your arm-pits seem like a pretty smart option). Or what about super wearable high-waisted paints and a cropped top decorated with exaggerated shoulders almost like festive pompoms. But hey, a cloud never explains its weird and alway changing forms right? It just is and it goes with the flow. If there must be one person floating on cloud 9, it must be Esther. As humble as she stepped out to receive her well-deserved applause, just as big is her future plan. Her first concrete steps towards an international career started of with a big bang, thanks to Lady Gaga and Paris Fashion Week. We can’t hide our curiosity for what her next step will be.

Dorhout Mees SS2015 Amsterdam Fashion Week

Inspired by water (or more specific the ability of water crystals to transform in certain environments) and it’s many faces Esther Dorhout Mees presented yet another flawless womenswear collection, named “O”, today. After the backdrop video set the mood and waves were projected onto the catwalk long and lean models on high geometric, asymmetrical heels (which gave the illusion to be wet) with wet hair ‘walked on water’. They sported elegant creations visibly inspired by water. Light blue and white (true water tones) were the main colors, a touch of pink added at the end. Fabrics were both airy and shiny, reflecting the attributes of water. Breast and waist were the focus in the designs silhouettes, with a few strong shoulders here and there. Always delicate and sophisticated and therewith creating a collection full of the finest cocktail chic ensembles. Strapless, structured dresses, midriff baring, ruffled (resembling waves) tops, sheer (representing the transparency of water) pants worn with high waisted underpants and maxi dresses with T-shirt shaped sleeves had XL pleats. Fabrics were airy, floating (like water) in the air as the models slowly walked the runway. An extra beautiful effect, which especially a few creations with layers of the finest, thinnest fabrics on top of each other (like a book) were able to show off. Mirrored prints (representing the reflecting aspect of water) added to the elegance of the collection as a nice subtle scent (yes, Dorhout Mees want to trigger all senses) completed the Dorhout Mees water world.

Dorhout Mees Catwalk Fashion Show FW14

Passage is the name of Dorhout Mees’ seventh collection. A collection meant for vulnerable yet powerful women based on organic forms and contrasts in material, colors and prints. Inspiration for prints and accessories came from wood and bark. Esther Dorhout Mees also presented her fourth shoe-collection, this time inspired by pieces of wood and made by 3D-print-technique. Take a peek at this beautiful show.