NO ONE is more sick of leisurewear than Michael Halpern. The designer, known for feathers, sequins and print can finally breathe as the world he designs for is finally opening back up. Halpern is unapologetically extravagant and decadent, the brand designs for the life of the party, the woman dancing until the sun comes up and for spring-summer 2022, Halpern takes a seat at the theatre.
A sacred place where the lights go out and the magic of dance and drama fuse into one, a place that was also heavily affected by the pandemic. In partnership with The Royal Ballet, Halpern presents his new collection in London’s Royal Opera House – after all, what’s more theatrical than a ballerina in Halpern?
Halpern SS22
Celebrating the homecoming of the much-needed escapism of the arts, especially theatre, Halpern wanted to demonstrate the extraordinary discipline and determination of this sector. Using this collection to delve deep into a technical study of movement, tailoring plays the lead role in SS22.
Each look specifically looks into a certain movement, designing the pieces to ensure that the clothes were just as powerful as the physicality of the dancers.
Halpern SS22
The collection interestingly therefore plays with the juxtaposition of fluidity and restriction. Elongated bows crafted from drapes and fringing emphasise the body, while the orb dresses and laced grommet dresses present the beauty in constriction, walking the tightrope of exaggeration by balancing both sides triumphantly.
Halpern SS22
Though the spotlight is on Michael Halpern and the standing ovation is pending, his ability to allow the wearer to shine as much as his clothes proves that the British designer is deserving of an encore.
by Imogen ClarkÂ