Carolina Herrera’s Resort 2025 (Cruise 2025) collection transported us to the heart of Mexico City, where designer Wes Gordon unveiled a vibrant celebration of color and artistry at the iconic Museo Anahuacalli. The setting, an imposing volcanic rock temple originally designed by Diego Rivera, provided a dramatic backdrop that perfectly complemented the collection’s rich hues and intricate details.
As the sun began to set, casting a warm glow over the venue, the runway came alive with a palette inspired by the fiery hues of a Mexican sunset. The first model walked the catwalk in a voluminous silk ball gown that featured an orange-hot sun against a peony pink background. This striking introduction set the tone for a series of ensembles that played with bold colors-Frida Kahlo blues, deep burgundies reminiscent of cacao seeds, and lush grassy greens.
Gordon’s appreciation for Mexico’s cultural heritage went beyond mere inspiration. He worked with four talented Mexican artisans to incorporate their traditional techniques into the collection. María de los Ángeles Licona of Hidalgo infused cotton separates with exquisite embroidery, resulting in standout pieces like a voluminous green blouse embellished with delicate pink thread. Virginia Verónica Arce of Tlaxcala contributed intricate lace-like embroidery to black silk ribbons, which were transformed into a chic short dress and an elegant halter gown that closed the show with undeniable grace.
For unexpected texture, ceramicist Jacqueline España of Tlaxcala embellished collars and lapels with her signature talavera tiles. These ceramic accents added a unique dimension to fashionable shift dresses and an ultramarine double-breasted blazer. Meanwhile, Oaxacan jewelry artist Araceli Nibra Matadamas created accessories from hand-painted jícaras that echoed the vibrant floral prints inspired by Mexico City’s bustling Mercado Jamaica flower market.
The fusion of high fashion and traditional craftsmanship was seamless, demonstrating Gordon’s commitment to creating a “true collaboration” that felt natural and unforced. After the finale, the designer personally acknowledged the artisans and applauded their contributions from the runway, a heartfelt gesture that underscored the collaborative spirit of the collection.
With a modern approach, this season also marked Carolina Herrera’s debut into the realm of see-now-buy-now fashion. “There’s so much excitement generated by a destination show like this; we wanted to give our customers instant gratification,” Gordon explained. This initiative was further highlighted by a five-piece capsule collaboration with Frame, featuring items such as a cropped denim jacket, miniskirt and denim ball skirt – all rendered in the collection’s vibrant hues. The mix of luxurious silhouettes with everyday wearables demonstrated how Gordon is evolving the brand’s legacy of glamour to resonate with contemporary women across generations.
The interplay between dramatic elegance and approachable style was evident throughout the collection. Floral prints reflected the vibrant assortment of flowers found in local markets, while geometric motifs were inspired by Mexican architecture. A champagne double-face silk skirt revealed a bold blue underside with every movement, adding a playful yet sophisticated touch. Details such as pleated sleeves revealing a flash of fuchsia or ceramic accents on lapels brought unexpected elements to classic designs.
©Photo: Carolina Herrera