Prada’s SS23 Womenswear Collection Presents Polished Rawness
In a response to reality, Prada’s SS23 Womenswear is energised with gestures of elegance and roughness as a reflection of humanity.
Conceived by Miuccia Prada and Raf Simons, Prada’s SS23 Womenswear, titled “Touch of Crude”, explores the unexpected dichotomy of contrasts — from smart, structured looks to architectural, flowy silhouettes. Held at Fondazione Prada, the show took place against a black paper scroll with projections illuminating the windows, a subtle allusion to voyeurism.
Born out of the conversations of separate realities, the runway presentation showcased the cross-pollination of day and evening garments. Echoing the fragility of the stage decor, a series of garments made of a paper-based fabric were torn up against the body for a spontaneous effect. Traces of life take the shape of garments, with purposeful drapes, rifts, folds and creases representating life embedded in the fabric itself. Borrowing traits from each other, tailored opera coats in the form of leather jackets formed a raw juxtaposition.
The show also offered a provocative look at delicate and sheer pastel tones, which graced the runway in the form of outerwear and night gowns — an alternate reality of domesticity. Skin-tight bodysuits of poplin shirting in industrial colours also made an appearance. For a natural look and feel, accessories designed with antique nappa had their surfaces patinated and wrinkled to give a fresh twist to the signature Prada handbag silhouette. Embracing the duality of style, the house explored the realms of minimalism and maximalism, to blur the lines of distinct realities.
Explore the best looks of Prada’s Spring/Summer 2023 here:
