By Bethany Berkeley
Courtesy of BOTTER
A more grounded take on tailoring and sustainability.
The Autmn/Winter 2024 season of Paris Fashion Week saw BOTTER, the Dutch-Curaçaoan duo of Rushemy Botter and Lisi Herrebrugh, plunge headfirst into uncharted territory with their collection titled "DARK WATERS." Stepping away from their playful Caribbean Couture roots, BOTTER delivered a more grounded, soulful offering that delved into the complexities of cultural fusion, and the intersection of art and life.
From the opening notes of a solemn piano symphony, the mood was introspective, reflecting a shift towards a deeper narrative. The catwalk became a canvas for a fusion of influences, drawing from mechanic uniforms, distressed tailoring, and 19th-century needlework techniques. Distressed blazers morphed into single pieces, whilst collars seemingly disappeared into thin air. Pre-dirtied cuffs peeked from doubled shirting, hinting at a life lived and experienced. The craftsmanship in the collection was undeniable, as faded tracksuits bore distorted "HELL" lettering alongside reimagined Shell logos, a playful subversion of established symbols. Shredded polos and ripped outerwear, meticulously deconstructed and "destroyed to perfection," embodied a vulnerability rarely seen on the runway.
Courtesy of BOTTER
Sustainability remains a core focus for the BOTTER. Upcycled denim, raw edges left unravelled, and circular knitting techniques all spoke to the brand's commitment to minimising waste and respecting the environment. Even the accessories, such as shoulder bags equipped with red bike lights, were infused with a sense of practicality and resourcefulness.
The brand also unveiled a fresh collaboration with Reebok, featuring low-top sneakers sporting flapped tongues reminiscent of Wales Bonner's adidas collaboration. Puffy rugby tops and dual-toned puffer jackets ruled the runway, paired with punctured caps and oversized duffle bags in BOTTER's signature oceanic blue.
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