In the midst of the AFW 2024 rush, Claes Iversen and POM Amsterdam provided a much-welcomed break during their immersive presentation. The exclusive collaboration between the outspoken fashion brand, founded by sisters Liesbeth and Violet, and the renowned Dutch couture designer gave new meaning to the art of dressing up in a showcase that uplifted everyone’s spirit.
Guests gathered outside a grand canal house on Herengracht. As everyone entered the apartment, silver and gold confetti scattered across the floor set the tone for what seemed to be an exclusive house party. In the living room, models showcased the collection whilst casually engaging in various activities — playing chess, riding an home trainer, or gossiping on the couch. Despite the bright 4PM sunshine outside, the apartment’s curtains were drawn, and models were sipping drinks, suggesting that time had no relevance in this setting. As we explored the corners of every room, guests mingled in the hallway, chatting and holding cocktails, adding to the illusion we were all part of a fabulous celebration. In the bedroom, a model in furry pink slippers matching a pink robe with clashing motifs, lounged on the bed, while an open wardrobe in the corner revealed more of the collection, ranging from pieces that could’ve come straight out of Top of the Pops. The ’80s influence was unmistakable, with bold, broad-shouldered power silhouettes, contrasting block colours, and expressive prints.
More so, the collaboration revealed shared influences, particularly a mutual nostalgia for teenage bedrooms covered in fashion photos and pop star posters. These spaces, once the birthplace of big dreams and creative aspirations, served as a key inspiration for the collection. The capsule collection was a well-curated selection of versatile pieces designed for easy mixing and matching. Highlights included eye-catching two-piece suits with powerful shoulders and statement prints—ranging from graphic arrow motifs to large hand-painted florals.This resulted in a collection that felt both dynamic and sophisticated, effortlessly blending ready-to-wear accessibility with the elevated touches of couture.
Titled after Yazz’s 1988 hit song, “The Only Way is Up,” the collection embodied the designers’ philosophy of transforming the ordinary into something extraordinary. POM Amsterdam x Claes Iversen’s collection presentation was a celebration of life, creativity, and the power of fashion to raise the spirits.
Images by Irina Bom
