Exploring Identity: MARYLING's SS24 Collection - University, Finding the New You

Within this collection, the individual artist's journey—a playful and nostalgic vision intertwined with the emotional fabric of practical life—creates an archetype of the university experience. It's a domain that fosters self-reinvention while nurturing a wistful nostalgia for the past.

"University, Finding the New You" serves as the guiding mantra for MARYLING's SS24 collection. It artfully mirrors life's pivotal moments, those experiences that accompany us as we journey into uncharted territories, armed with curiosity and the unfettered liberty to explore.

At the heart of MARYLING's inspiration lies the personal exploration of life by contemporary artists. It is through their lens that the brand seeks its creative nourishment, drawing from an eclectic palette that includes pop icons like Britney Spears and luminaries of the artistic realm—Michael Landy, and Tracey Emin. These visionaries traverse the landscape of existence, examining their own lives through highly individualized and spectacular filters. They harness the mediums of sculpture, painting, photography, and embroidery, navigating a realm where moments lived and recreated coexist. 

A poignant starting point for this collection is the audacious performance art piece known as "Break Down," which propelled Michael Landy into the limelight. It centered on the radical notion of destroying all one's possessions—a profound exploration of genuine needs. MARYLING translates this audacity into daring collage prints that define the collection, echoing the idea of self-care and self-respect that characterizes the MARYLING woman. Unexpected color combinations— gray, yellow, and indigo —come alive with neon accents, framed by deeper hues, black, and pristine white. Tie-inspired stripes adorn hems, creating a juxtaposition of organic knit textures that incorporate cashmere, mohair, and wool. Vintage sensibilities persist in the form of printed silk, georgette, and satin, paying homage to both the past and the ever-renewing allure of novelty.

The silhouettes exude sartorial elegance, often juxtaposed with multicolored silk. Dresses embrace layering, crafting eclectic combinations that redefine expectations. The very essence of reuse is woven into the collection, reflecting the extraordinary process of identity formation. It subverts conventions, urging a playful reinvention of self.

MARYLING's Spring/Summer 2024 collection it is a profound exploration of identity. It embodies the spirit of transformation, inspired by contemporary artists who navigate the complexities of existence with courage and creativity. This collection serves as a reminder that fashion is not just about clothing; it's a canvas for self-expression, a mirror reflecting the multifaceted journey of life itself.

By Oona Chanel