Au Naturale: Acne Studios FW23 Collection
Deeply rooted in the symbolism and mysticism of nature, Swedish fashion house Acne Studios’ Fall/Winter 2023 collection is a study in contrasts, weaving organic flowing lines that drape over the body with skin-tight silhouettes that appear to have grown like ivy. Seemingly an extension of the forest itself, these pieces wouldn’t look out of place on some woods-dwelling creature. Yet, in moments, it is firmly reminiscent of the slick urbanism of the cityscape.
Inspired by the topography of a forest, it feels both brutal and magical, but firmly rooted in nature. A celebration of growth and evolution – with views to the future – Acne Studios’ latest offering transports the viewer to a fantasy forest, where the beauty of the world around us is enhanced and reflected back in sparkling tree sap and exploding flora. The textures are inspired by flowers, plants, and tree bark. This is made visible in the earthy tones of green and brown, inspired by decaying leaves and tree roots, that are the building blocks of these creations, juxtaposed with poisonous shades of acid yellow, toxic pink, rusty orange, and bright blue.
“I wanted to capture the beauty of the darkness in both the collection and the set. Sweden is the kind of place where the city ends abruptly and then the pine forest begins. I’ve always enjoyed the contrast between urban life and nature, the idea that an infinite forest is just around the corner.”
– Jonny Johansson (Creative Director, Acne Studios)
Words By: Emmy Hallahan
Imagery Courtesy of Acne Studios.
