Stella McCartney Pre-Spring 2023 – WWD – Pen 18

Stella McCartney is going wild in the English countryside to turn swaths of her organic farm into a haven for badgers, hedgehogs, rabbits and deer. She is allowing the currents to flow and bend wherever she pleases, and allowing nature to take its course.

Her “wild and sexy” lady is taking her cues from nature — and having a lot of fun, said the designer, whose model has been photographed ankle-deep in a stream with wild irises in the background; Hitting the tall grass as if the kids are playing tag, or lying on the grass and looking up at the sky.

This natural attitude came about through a lineup of animal prints, broody anglaise, and unfinished, homespun edges. A string sweater was stitched together from flowers crocheted by hand in Italy; The braids of long, bright dresses were cut into car wash pleats, while broody anglies were everywhere—the shape of two little birds sitting on either side of halter tops, minidress hemlines or a button-fronted white top.

Although tigers can’t roam around England, their stripes certainly do: An abstract print appeared on an oversize tailored suit with a buckle-front jacket; Coat with microminis and wide lapels, and lots of swagger.

Other, smaller animals roamed freely: there were brightly colored birds on a little black dress and a menagerie of rabbits, hedgehogs and baby deer on a boxy-sleeved shirt and miniskirt combo.

There were pieces for the urbanites as well, including a PVC-free sequin jumpsuit for those who are really wild at heart; A leather jacket with a round, statement collar, and dramatic cape top and dress.

Spring is McCartney’s favorite season: She loves nature’s fighting spirit and “ability to let go and move on.” It is such an optimistic time,” said the designer, who has spent much of her life helping animal rights activism and through extensive research into sustainable materials.

This pre-spring collection featured bags and sneakers made from grape waste. In July, her Frayme Mylo bag, made from the web-like roots of mycelium, fungus, will hit the shop floor for the first time, which makes her so proud and extra hungry for more innovation.

Originally published at Pen 18