“Summer is heralded as a way of being, not just a season: a mindset that works all year long,” says Jonathan Anderson. “A happily energising one.”
Since the release of the first Paula’s Ibiza collection in 2016, the luxury fashion house of Loewe has fully expanded its sunny offerings for both men and women. For the designer and creative director, Anderson believed it time to widen the scope of the capsule.
Inspired by the celebrated boutique of the same name – founded in 1972 by Armin Heinemann and Stuart Rudnick – Paula’s Ibiza 2021 is a reflection of the vibrant Spanish summer, albeit via new shapes. Deconstructed blazers for men and floating dresses for women lend a mildly more formal approach to the garments. In contrast to past releases, the overall collection now opens a multitude of functions way beyond the summer vacation moment.
As Anderson outlines via a press note, “Letting go is, after all, a way of being, and the beach is both a place and an attitude, I believe.”
Paula’s Ibiza is distinctly Spanish yet reveals a more global lens through punchy patterns. World-inspired archival prints such as parrots, doves and crocuses are reinterpreted through psychedelic and abstract design cues. Each style is then emblazoned onto a series of relaxed staples such as dresses, sweatshirts, drawstring shorts and loose trousers. Luxury craftsmanship can be seen through a recurring theme of crochet via dresses and hooded sweats as well as along the hem of trousers and the short sleeves of blouses.
Pieces crafted in chambray are a nod to relaxed workwear (particularly apt as we continue to work from home) while textured geometries on tops and kaftan dresses highlight the feeling of the handmade.
As for accessories, Loewe has drawn from its own archival sunglasses and coveted range of bags reimagined by way of tropical fruits and fluorescent colourways. The offering of bags and hats are woven using natural fibres. In addition, the house has partnered with Corporación Oficio y Arte NGO: an artisanal collective that allows the craftswomen to be financially independent and educate their children. The Anagram baskets are created with Iraca Palm and woven in Colombia by these female artisans.
Rounding out the range of cult accessories are buttery suede moccasin boots and classic canvas espadrilles.
Such a spirited and contemporary collection can only be given justice through the eye of photographer, Gray Sorrenti. The renowned creative captured models in amongst the colourful architectures of Mérida and Campeche, Mexico. In turn, the glaring sunlight and geometric shapes nearly become a character in its own right.
“Filled with personal memories of summers on the island, LOEWE Paula’s Ibiza 2021 captures my idea of escapism,” says Anderson. “The spirit of letting go is, for me, forever associated with this unique place.”
Shop the collection, here.
