Harris Reed, the darling of avant-garde fashion, is back with a Spring/Summer 2025 collection that showcases his flair for the dramatic while demonstrating a newfound commitment to sustainability. Known for his flamboyant designs and theatrical runway presentations, Reed has created a collection constructed from vintage and antique textiles, breathing new life into forgotten fabrics.
The genesis of the Harris Reed Spring/Summer 2025 collection can be traced back to seven months ago, when Reed embarked on a search for unique materials. Scouring online platforms such as Depop, Etsy and even vintage textile specialists, Reed and his team unearthed a treasure trove of antique fabrics. Among their finds were delicate Art Nouveau lace, opulent 19th-century silk damask, and vibrant striped satin, each piece imbued with history and a story waiting to be told.
This exploration of antique textiles marks a departure for the designer, whose past collections have often been inspired by historical figures and cultural movements. This season, however, it was the textiles themselves that captured Reed’s imagination, challenging him to create garments that celebrate their inherent beauty and craftsmanship. This approach resulted in a collection of truly unique pieces, each a testament to Reed’s ability to transform the old into something entirely new and exciting.
A striking example is a bias-cut skirt and jacket ensemble made from three meticulously matched 200-year-old Point de Venise lace tablecloths. The jacket features a dramatic lapel that curves gracefully around the body, creating a headpiece effect. Another standout piece is a white silk organza mini dress adorned with three-dimensional black flowers made from antique haberdashery findings. The dress is further accentuated by voluminous hip bags, adding to the overall sense of drama and grandeur of the collection.
Harris Reed’s decision to incorporate upcycled materials into his designs is in line with a growing movement within the fashion industry towards more sustainable practices. By giving new life to existing materials, Reed challenges the prevailing culture of disposability and demonstrates that luxury and sustainability are not mutually exclusive concepts.
©Photo: Harris Reed