Rotate enters a new era of elegance
This review is brought to you in collaboration with Bolou Fine Jewellery.
Rotate, Thursday, August 8, 2024 at 6 PM, Garden of the Royal Library
If Rotate were a family member, they’d definitely be the fun aunt or the cool sister. While many Danish brands emphasise practicality and comfort, Rotate boldly challenges conventions, celebrating the female form with unapologetic flair. Their SS25 collection, while innovative, took a more mature and elegant turn compared to previous seasons which seemingly divided showgoers. Some were expecting another Rotate party filled with flashing lights, power anthems, sequins and dancing. That’s often expected from the brand who closes the season. I, on the other hand, hoped for something different, an opportunity to connect with the garments, and to my surprise, that’s exactly what we received.
The collection offered a striking nod to Art Nouveau through intricate sequin embroidery in scalloped shells and pearlised beads to create the effect of stained glass. These motifs were presented in high-waisted hotpants, sculptural bralettes, and a variety of dresses. Nods to the 1920s flapper girl emerged through dropped waistlines and fine lace material, as well as the setting itself, a royal garden designed in the very era. Fringing featured in two standout pieces: a monochrome halterneck mini dress adorned with floor-length fringing and a dress that blended a long-sleeve jersey scoop neck top with sculptural white ruching at the hips and sparkling diamante fringe.
While the collection claims to draw inspiration from the escapism and flamboyance of the 1920s, there were more historical echoes than they give themselves credit for. Several pieces boasted exaggerated hips, reminiscent of the hip attachments and petticoats of the 18th and 19th centuries. It was a pleasant surprise to see Rotate, who are often recognised for their progressive, trendsetting designs, present a series of clothes for the modern women infused with historical elegance.
The question now centres on responsibility: Is the cost-per-wear of bridal and party attire too high to be deemed sustainable? With that said, the evolution and advancement of the brand is obvious as well as their work to incorporate more responsible materials and working methods, and I’m keen to see what happens next.
See a selection of the show looks below and see the entire collection here.
