Corset Crazy, Couture Confused

What if the highly anticipated piece seemed more Instagram-ready than runway-worthy in place of astounding innovation? Let's explore the fervour, the criticism, and all points in between.

Corset Crazy, Couture Confused
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Trends are nothing new to Kylie Jenner, and her most recent move, collaborating with avant-garde designer Dilara Findikoglu, seemed like the makings of a fashion moment. Expectations were high because of Khy's love of curves and Dilara's distinctive gothic flair and corsetry. Drama, edge, and a new take on the lingerie-as-outerwear trend that has been dominating runways were all promised by the partnership.

Fashion's interest in the form-shaping corset has grown. John Galliano highlighted the corset on both male and female models at Maison Margiela's much-discussed Spring 2024 couture show. Prominent designers such as Schiaparelli, Mugler, Simone Rocha, and Sergio Hudson also adopted the technique for the Autumn/Winter 2024 season. Independent labels are redefining corsetry outside of the runway by incorporating it into discussions about gender inclusivity, sexual empowerment, and body positivity.

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Corset Crazy, Couture Confused

Kylie Jenner has embraced the lingerie-as-outerwear trend with her latest collaboration between her fashion label Khy and designer Dilara Findikoglu. The limited-edition collection highlights Findikoglu’s signature corsetry and Victorian influences, blended with Khy’s figure-accentuating aesthetic. At the centre of the release is the Satin Corset Mini Dress in Ruby, priced at $358. Designed to create a sharply sculpted silhouette, the dress features a square neckline, corseted stitching at the bust and waist, and structured hips for a dramatic hourglass shape. Decorative hook-and-eye closures run down the front, complemented by an exposed metal zip at the back. Made from 100% polyester with a cotton-blend lining, the fully lined dress offers no stretch and is tailored for a form-fitting, contoured look. Available in a wide range of sizes from 0 to 20W, the piece tries to merge bold femininity with architectural fashion.

The designs are seen as tailored more for influencer culture and Instagram aesthetics rather than everyday women.

Corset Crazy, Couture Confused

The Khy x Dilara Findikoglu collaboration falls short of expectations. Despite the high prices, the collection is described as basic, cheap-looking, and lacking the originality that defines Dilara’s usual work. One can argue that Khy has diluted Dilara’s unique, artistic aesthetic into something bland and overly commercial. The designs are seen as tailored more for influencer culture and Instagram aesthetics rather than everyday women, with some comparing the quality to fast fashion brands like Forever21, but priced like premium labels such as Club Monaco.

People have pointed out a disconnect between the pricing and the product quality, a concern that echoes feedback from previous Khy drops. Many are frustrated by the high price tags, arguing that the materials don't justify the cost. While there is growing consumer interest in investing in well-made, durable fashion, this collection doesn't meet that standard. Moreover, the pricing feels out of reach for the brand’s apparent target audience: women in their 20s and early 30s. As a result, despite the desire to support unique or designer-led pieces, many feel forced to rely on fast fashion simply because it's what they can afford.

Team L’Officiel India

The L’Officiel India editorial team.

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