Akris Spring/Summer 2024 Fashion Show

Akris has recently concluded its year-long 100th-anniversary celebrations, marked by a tentpole exhibition at Switzerland's prestigious design museum, the Museum für Gestaltung Zurich. The exhibition garnered nearly 27,000 visitors, setting a new record, before concluding on September 24.

The exhibition primarily delved into the creative journey of Albert Kriemler, with a particular focus on the past 15 years when the brand embraced artistic collaborations and technical innovations.

Kriemler has consistently demonstrated his keen artistic sensibilities. For instance, he showcased Reinhard Voigt's pixelated oil paintings from the 1960s and 1970s in his fall 2022 designs, well ahead of these motifs appearing in collections by renowned fashion houses like Loewe and Louis Vuitton.

When asked about his criteria for selecting artists that inspire him, the modest Kriemler explained, "It's pure feeling, honestly."

For the upcoming spring collection, Kriemler drew inspiration from Felice "Lizzi" Rix-Ueno, whose work he encountered during an exhibition dedicated to the late textile, wallpaper, and craft designer at the MAK Museum of Applied Arts in Vienna.

Kriemler was captivated by Rix-Ueno's association with the Wiener Werkstätte, or Vienna Workshop, movement and her extensive career in Japan. Her work was characterized by vibrant and charming designs, featuring motifs such as poppies, fruit, birds, and tassels, all of which found their way into the Akris collection.

Rix-Ueno's belief that "through craft, you can develop your fantasy" resonated with Kriemler, who has consistently emphasized the importance of fine fabrics in his seemingly simple yet meticulously crafted designs. His attention to detail extends to fabric selection, including stiff organza for weightless tailoring, high-twist linen for wrinkle-resistant shirt jackets that mimic faded denim, and exquisite cotton voile for draped shirts.

Akris' spring collection further fueled the utility chic trend and embraced the floral motifs prevalent on Paris runways, all while staying true to the refined and restrained Akris aesthetic.

The runway show was a polished, chic, and lively affair, featuring live music and a backdrop adorned with fabric flowers. Highlights included red cotton guipure resembling pressed poppies and minimalist evening looks featuring long, glistening fringe.

As Akris embarks on its second century, it does so on a strong and vibrant note, exemplifying the brand's enduring commitment to creativity and innovation.