AZ Factory Spring Summer 2024 Haute Couture Lookbook

Paris-based Finnish designer Jenny Hytönen took the helm as the guest couture designer for AZ Factory's Spring Summer 2024 collection, delivering a vision of the future that transcends traditional notions of blank slates and sanitized Space Age aesthetics. Embracing the concept of time as layered, Hytönen drew inspiration from the late founder Alber Elbaz's fall 2009 collection and the metal bar details from spring 2015, creating a couture collection that seamlessly melds delicate and brutal elements.

Hytönen's creative vernacular, recognized for its delicate-meets-brutal charm, was on full display in the AZ Factory couture presentation. Filmy organza gowns layered over vests made of metallic hoops, military shearlings collaged into stately capes, and off-the-shoulder ensembles adorned with thousands of needle beads showcased a wild yet polished aesthetic. The result was a post-apocalyptic red carpet vibe, influenced by Hytönen's fascination with the post-punk and cyberpunk movements, where a younger generation, traumatized by conflict, expressed themselves through unconventional creations.

The collection garnered admiration from a diverse audience, including press, fellow designers, and VIPs such as actresses Camille Lelouch and British singer-songwriter Celeste. The presence of notable figures like Lutz Huelle, Tennessy Thoreson, and Lora Sonney emphasized the resonance of Hytönen's work within the AZ Factory universe. Richemont executive Mauro Grimaldi praised the brand's commitment to supporting independent designers and fostering the growth of creatives, highlighting the importance of moving away from a disposable approach to young talent.

AZ Factory's objective of helping creatives transition to the next step was exemplified in Hytönen's collaboration. Grimaldi emphasized the need for big conglomerates to support independent designers and build sustainable professional ecosystems. Hytönen expressed her gratitude for the experience of working with the AZ Factory studio, absorbing insights from their collaboration with Elbaz. This collaboration not only influenced the direction of her collection but also emphasized the significance of taking time to create in a world that often demands immediacy.