Fashion Month
Extravagant Marie Antoinettes Walked at Thom Browne
Story by Mario Abad / Photography by Hatnim Lee
01 October 2019
Thom Browne loves an alternate universe. His runway shows are more like performance art, with elaborate sets and surreal characters creating an escapist fantasy of sorts. For Spring 2020, he took inspiration from none other than Marie Antoinette, one of fashion's favorite muses. The powdery makeup, corsets, and big bustle skirts were some of the literal interpretations, but Browne also incorporated some humorous elements; giant orca shoes and a fountain in the middle of the set with a "tinkling" pee detail were among the whimsical touches. Here's everything you need to know about the collection.
Related | Why Are Hoop Skirts Everywhere?
Bustle Skirts
18th-century panniers has been popping up on runways seemingly everywhere this season, and Thom Browne offers perhaps the most literal interpretation of the French bustle skirt.
Fancy Corsets
Another Marie Antoinette archetype, corsets get their moment in the spotlight with extensive boning and lacing details.
Trompe L'oeil
Browne's signature trompe l'oeil techniques are seen in dresses with three-piece suit details in pastel hues.
Big Hair and Veils
The higher the hair, the closer to heaven? Such mantra could have originated with Marie Antoinette herself, and Browne accessorized them with thin short veils that were hung ever so gently.
Kitschy Props
Browne's famous 'Hector' handbag appeared once again this season. The black and white orca props weren't necessarily shoes but the models did insert their feet in them.
Photography: Hatnim Lee
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