Raquel Allegra Pre-Fall 2024 Lookbook

With a theme that pays homage to the iconic grunge era, Pre-Fall 2024 Allegra's designs go beyond the surface, delving into the essence of a "grunge state of mind" where clothing evolves, disintegrates, and becomes even more cherished.

The collection opens with a bold statement - a sleeveless plaid shirt paired with a matching button-front skirt, complemented by a color-blocked plaid shirt tied around the waist. While this ensemble might evoke thoughts of Seattle's crisp weather, Allegra assures us that the inspiration goes beyond flannels, especially for a high summer collection.

“We were thinking about a ‘grunge state of mind’ in the way clothing falls apart and you love it even more,” Allegra explains, shedding light on the thought process behind each piece. The plaid patterns, derived from Allegra's watercolor artwork, reveal a surprising element of romanticism upon closer inspection, challenging the conventional perception of grunge aesthetics.

Notably absent from the collection are Allegra's signature tie-dye prints, replaced by a subtle "sun fade" effect in faded black, yellow, pink, and green. This deviation introduces a sporty element with a unique touch - a 'repair tape' adorning the side seams, offering a clean and simplified version of Allegra's iconic designs, akin to a foundational piece within the collection.

Adding a burst of vibrancy to the washed-out palette are photo-realistic bold flower prints, a first for Allegra, sourced directly from her own garden. Printed on poplin fabric, these blooms inject a sense of life and contrast, creating a harmonious coexistence with the grunge-inspired elements.

Experimentation takes center stage as Allegra transforms fabric treatments into prints, exemplified by a simple yet captivating light gray silk slip dress adorned with crooked green lines resembling topography. The intensity of the treatment, involving coloration, tying off sections, and complete bleaching, is translated into a wearable piece through the innovative use of print technology.

“This collection feels like a fresh take on something we’ve been making for 15 years,” Allegra remarks, highlighting the evolution of her design philosophy. The juxtaposition of elements, from the grunge-inspired plaid to the vibrant floral prints and experimental fabric treatments, reflects a dynamic exploration of contrasts and a celebration of the beauty in imperfection.