Clothing can be so much more than the means by which to be covered up for modesty’s sake; it has the potential to be art, evocative of another time and place; of a distinct sensibility and lifestyle. Custo Dalmau – a Spanish fashion designer – uses design as a means to transport wearers to his country; a locale filled with boisterous spirit and joy, brilliant colors and the thrill of life.
Dalmau founded the brand Custo Barcelona alongside brother David in the early ‘80s after a trip the pair took around the world and since then, the label has been synonymous with Spanish style through a global perspective. In Custo Barcelona’s Spring/Summer 2013 collection, Dalmau’s use of color, and graphic prints for both men and women showcased his exuberant spirit and patriotic vision. Click through for pictures of Dalmau at his New York City studio preparing for the show and see his vision come to life in the line’s Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week runway debut.
Dalmau flew from Europe to New York City just two days before the runway show for his signature line. “My clothes are fun, for the woman who has a young spirit,” says Dalmau. “For a woman that tries to express her individuality and understand fashion with a sense of humor and irony.”
Dalmau and a design associate take a closer look at a woven jacket adorned with contrasting pom poms to be worn on the runway. The new collection is a colorful homage to art, says Dalmau, and showcased breezy pieces alongside body-conscious designs.
Dalmau debuted a colorful new accessory collection on the runway, including these neon digital watches to be worn by both men and women.
The use of layered textiles created visually stunning pieces seen on the runway; a feature that Dalmau says he intended to distinguish this collection from previous seasons. “We tried to keep our DNA, but showcase it in a new and attractive, refreshed way,” explains Dalmau. “That’s why I used many different materials and shapes while keeping our signature palate of colors.”
A hot pink fringed vest over a graphic print top in a contrasting color provides a perfect warm-weather palate. “The fusion of colors, graphics and materials makes this a very contemporary collection,” says Dalmau, of his Spring/Summer 2013 collection.
Pink isn’t just for women any more, as displayed by a pink knit sweater paired with metallic shorts in Dalmau’s collection for men. The combination may see unlikely for some, but Dalmau says the look was driven by his desire to “reinvent myself in an attractive way after 20-something years.”
Sleek, architecturally-driven sillhoutes paired with laser cut, layered fabrics in acid tones were predominantly featured in the show. Custo Barcelona is known for its use of vibrant color; a nod Dalmau says, to his heritage. “Spain is a land where you have lots of days with sunshine and color,” says Dalmau. “Wherever you go in my clothes, you have a touch of Spain.”
Dalmau smiles at the conclusion of his show, which was attended by hundreds of fashionistas, fashion editor, journalists and aficionados of the brand. And his favorite piece from the collection? “The dresses are my favorite,” confessed Dalmau. “The most detailed work in the collection was done in this category.”
Who loves short shorts? Dalmau showcased a variety of swimsuits, shorts and knit dresses in his Spring/Summer 2013 collection, inspired by the concept of an x-ray; exemplified by his use of light fabrics and futuristic touches.
