The recent collaboration between The Collectives and DENHAM, showcased on the opening day of Amsterdam Fashion Week, proved to be a masterclass in fusing pre-owned designer pieces with exclusive tailored denim. Spearheaded by Aarti O’Varama and Jason Denham, the showcase offered fashion enthusiasts an immersive experience where style becomes a powerful medium for self-expression.
“It all started with a Jean”… The Collectives x DENHAM collaboration put denim at the heart of today’s showcase. Meticulously reflecting the varied needs of the modern muse, the collection seamlessly blended timeless sophistication with youthful vibrancy. Presented in a range of impeccably tailored pieces, DENHAM exclusives were taken out of the archive for this occasion, and set against a colour palette predominantly existing of black, white, and blue.
Upon arrival, guests were treated to a sensory experience seamlessly blending into the core message of this collaboration. An exclusive fragrance sample, ‘Undisclosed Muse,’ greeted attendees, capturing the essence of the mysterious and multifaceted woman the collection sought to honour. This was further complemented by a display of the phrase “There’s something about her,” piquing curiosity and setting the tone for the show.
The runway flaunted coordinated outfits, one of them a sleeveless top in blue and black plaid with a high neckline and relaxed fit, paired with wide-leg denim trousers featuring a matching plaid stripe down the sides. The loose, flowing silhouettes of the show allowed the models to walk down the runway with ease and comfort. Iconic tracks like Blondie’s “Heart of Glass” and Fleetwood Mac’s “Dreams” filled the space, evoking a sense of nostalgia and effortless cool and inhabiting the music choices of the brands’ imagined muse. The show’s finale was particularly striking, with models fading into silhouettes behind a lit panel—a poetic homage to the enigmatic woman at the heart of this collection.
The styling of the show was another element that showcased why this collaboration is so unique. The dedication to curating pre-owned designer pieces and perfecting every detail of the DENHAM pieces stand as a testament for the passion both brands have for their craft. The Collectives and DENHAM delivered both individually and as partners and visualised a profound display of the modern muse’s magnetic energy.
Words by Ines Lopes
Images by Merel Daantje via YOUNG / The Agency
