In the fashion industry, it’s not uncommon for designers to take inspiration from unexpected places. However, Belgian designer Glenn Martens took it to a whole new level with his recent collection for Y/Project. Martens looked to turn the infamous “walk of shame” into a “walk of fame” by incorporating playful twists, wrapping, and bright colors into his designs.
For those unfamiliar with the term, the “walk of shame” is a term used to describe the embarrassing and awkward journey home after a night of partying, usually in the same clothes from the night before. It’s a moment that many of us have experienced at some point in our lives, and one that is often filled with shame and regret. But Martens is determined to change the narrative and make it a walk of pride instead.
The collection, which was showcased during Paris Fashion Week, was a nod to the party culture of the 1980s and 1990s. With bold prints, bright colors, and oversized silhouettes, the pieces exuded a fun and carefree vibe that celebrated the idea of embracing oneself and living in the moment.
What immediately catches the eye in Martens’ collection are the twisting and wrapping techniques used in his designs. Models walked down the runway in exaggeratedly twisted and knotted tops and dresses, creating a sense of movement and dynamism. These textile manipulations added a playful and whimsical touch to the collection, and also served as a nod to Martens’ Belgian heritage and the country’s renowned Surrealist art movement.
But it wasn’t just the twists and wraps that made a statement. Martens also played with proportions and silhouettes, with billowy sleeves, oversized blazers, and wide-leg trousers. This experimentation with shapes and sizes is a signature of his brand, and it adds an element of surprise and excitement to his designs.
The use of bright and bold colors also cannot go unnoticed. Martens incorporated vibrant hues like electric blue, fuchsia pink, and neon green into the collection, making each piece stand out on its own. These eye-catching colors not only added a fun and playful touch to the collection, but also symbolized the idea of embracing one’s individuality and standing out from the crowd.
Martens’ collection also featured a range of garments that could easily transition from day to night, making them perfect for the modern working woman. With sleek blazers, tailored trousers, and versatile dresses, Martens proved that fashion can be both practical and artistic.
The “walk of shame” has long been associated with feelings of shame and regret. But Martens’ collection challenges that perception and encourages people to embrace and celebrate their experiences, regardless of how others may view them. By reinterpreting this societal construct, Martens hopes to turn a moment of embarrassment into a moment of pride and celebration.
As a designer, Martens has always pushed boundaries and challenged norms. His collections are always a fusion of art, culture, and fashion, and this collection is no different. By blending his unique aesthetic with a playful and rebellious twist, Martens has once again captured the attention of the fashion world and cemented his position as a trendsetter.
In the end, it’s not just about the clothes, but the message that Martens is conveying through his designs. He challenges us to look beyond societal expectations and norms and embrace our individuality and experiences. As Martens himself said, “Sometimes, what makes people beautiful is what makes them different.” And with this collection, he has truly embraced and celebrated that sentiment, turning a “walk of shame” into a “walk of fame”.
