For AW23, we explore past visions of the future, invoking a world of flying cars, towering skyscrapers, and ultra-sleek design. Using retrofuturism as a launchpad into this glittering realm, our latest collection deals in bold silhouettes and outlandish textures which seem to have arrived from another planet. Described by Malone Souliers’ Co-Creative Director, Valerio Bava, as “futuristic glam with a touch of space age nostalgia”, join us on a deep dive into this irresistibly intergalactic offering…
The Inspiration
When researching the AW23 collection, our team “were drawn to the idea of escapism and creating something that felt divine and exciting,” explains Co-Creative Director, Coco Fong. Landing on the theme of retrofuturism, Valerio muses, “at times of uncertainty, we tend to revert to fantastical visions of an optimistic future”. The late 1960s is the era most commonly associated with retro-futurist style, calling to mind the iconic designs of Pierre Cardin and Paco Rabanne. Valerio explains how the team set about trying to bring “that sensibility into the current day.” The result is a visually thrilling confection of “curved, shiny surfaces and metallic accents,” adds Coco.
Textural Appeal
With a high V-cut vamp and heart-shaped open toe, newcomer Henri’s directional aesthetic adeptly captures the season’s space-age mood. The sandal is crafted from mesmerising cracked mirror leather in alluring bronze or showstopping green. Innovative fabrics and finishes like these are a mainstay of the collection. Made from metallic ombré nappa in sunset shades, knee-high boot Markle is a chic case in point. Its classic black calf leather equivalent, meanwhile, subtly nods to the season’s inspiration thanks to its silver mirror lacquer heel. Universally loved for its easy wearability, baby blue denim joins the line-up of unexpected materials, enlivening old favourites Yasmin and Una as well as the debut Misha slingback.
Daring Décor
Our new glittering crystal disc embellishment nods to the clean lines and organic forms that define retrofuturism. A favourite of Valerio’s, the component is “inspired by floating objects”. Defined by their curved stiletto heels and realised in lustrous sepia satin, the Vonn pump and Josia sandal are two styles to showcase this cutting-edge adornment. Coco’s pick is Ilenia, a new platform silhouette whose decorative appeal lies in the eye-catching cross of a slingback and signature ankle strap. The pump is set upon towering 130mm block heels for maximum height, and available in both black calf and burgundy satin.
Future Classics
As always, we’ve taken some of our most-loved core styles and reimagined them in line with this season’s captivating theme. First up, Maureen and Marion have been recast in white and pink lace mesh for an out-of-this-world finish. Elsewhere, traditionalists will lean towards Maureen and Cora, both in chocolate brown nappa, for their endless versatility and ease.
Discover the AW23 collection now.