Malan Breton has a flair for theatre and cinematic storytelling. This season's SS27 show began with a short film of an elegant dance between Malan and his Muse, and ended with a performance by Crystal Waters. Yes: the Crystal Waters. British Vogue has an article featuring him titled The Most Influential Designer You've Never Heard Of but if you work in fashion on this side of the pond, then you know or have heard of him. And if you've heard of him then you know that his reputation for kindness precedes him. Breton is known, and he is adored.
Malan Breton likes to stay busy. He has dressed performers like Kylie Minogue and RAYE. He has supported education and cultural exchange through lectures, mentorships and educative initiatives with Pratt Institute, Princeton University, and FIT, to name a few. His collaborations range from FIFA to LVMH. He's been featured on Bravo's Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, and Project Runway. I attended his AW15 show in New York, my very first fashion week season, and can still remember the looks that walked the runway that evening. Especially his crowned tangerine bride. He responds personally to his Instagram direct messages. He messaged me on Instagram once. I fangirled. Hard.
All of Breton's fashion shows will have an extra-special flair to them: and this SS27 Jardins des Mille Demains (Garden of a Thousand Tomorrows) was no exception. This was his farewell tour; it is to be Breton's last New York show before he begins his next chapter in Rome.
The show opened with a bright teal suede fringe jacket that pulled an audible gasp from the audience. The second look was a showcase of Breton's fine tailoring skills: a women's wide-leg pantsuit in a jewel-tone blue so vibrant it glowed. What followed was the sheen of satin, the volume of tulle, and the playful swing of fringe, both of the leather and beaded variety. Breton's precision showed in fanned pleated busts and the fluid draping of silk gowns that rippled like water with movement.
The pieces were fun, without being too restrictive. The clothing invited and celebrated movement: via the colors that caught your attention, or the sequined and beaded dresses that held your gaze; the clothing invited you to join the party, and to stay awhile. But, not too long. Malan has places to go. And Rome is waiting!
