“One Love” by Layana Aguilar for NYFW

Layana Aguilar’s SS18 collection was definitely one of the highlights of New York Fashion Week. You might remember her “FREE CREATURES” line which we blogged about back in February. Well, Layana’s done it again! And I want to share with you images of her beautiful and inspiring “One Love” collection. Scroll down to get a taste of this collection of intricate yet effortless wearable art.

Layana’s One Love collection is a harmonious mosaic of contrasting elements. It features tulle pieces with delicate flower appliqué in blue, rose gold, and copper by artist Marcello Costa. These ethereal elements are then contrasted with almost industrial-like hardware in belts, suspenders, and shoulder straps.

She also employs one of her favorite textiles, neoprene, which she has become so skilled at manipulating. Sometimes it makes for really cool sleeves.

At other times, it creates soft shapes which highlight and celebrate a woman’s body. I love how Layana makes sure to include an element of sex appeal throughout her work.

Fashion with a message

I have to say that I especially love it when fashion takes on one of the jobs of art. That is, when it responds to what is going on around us.  Currently in the U.S., you may have noticed or read about the huge clashes between people of diverse political and ethnic backgrounds.

And so, “One Love” is such a timely and poignant expression. Brazilian-born Layana stated at the beginning of the presentation that her inspiration was drawn from around the world. And she calls upon us to realize that “Together we are stronger.”

She even demonstrated this in her casting. Not only were her models ethnically diverse. But you’ll also notice in these photos models whose beauty lies outside of conventional model industry standards.

Of course, all models embraced her attitude as a designer. They looked both strong and sexy.

And you could tell that the crowd, among which I counted, was really excited by the collection. It’s time for clothing that embraces the ideals of beauty, strength, and unity!  

“One Love is an ode to the light we all carry inside, I mixed many characteristics from different cultures to achieve what I envisioned for this collection!…The message behind this collection is that by embracing and respecting one another, we will find peace and unconditional love together.”

– Layana Aguilar