Zoe Gustavia Anna Whalen showcased her Fall 2025 collection, i’minlovewitheverythingandiknownothingatall, like a Ceremony of Presence.
Zoe Gustavia Anna Whalen‘s show, set within the Performance Space in the East Village, invited attendees into a dimly lit world, where flickering flames cast shadows over models clad in historical silhouettes infused with contemporary craftsmanship. The setting was more than aesthetic; it demanded presence, pulling the audience away from the distractions of modern life into a shared moment of reflection.
The collection itself echoed this duality of light and darkness, hope and despair. Medieval armor crafted from vintage silver plate adorned waif-like figures, blending protection with fragility. Corsetry, crinolines, and voluminous layers referenced past eras, but their transformation into soft sculptural forms prevented them from becoming mere costume. Materials like deadstock fabrics, linens, and even wax-dipped textiles added to the handcrafted, almost sacred feel of the pieces.
Whalen’s designs exist in a liminal space, borrowing from history while avoiding nostalgia. Wader-style pants reminiscent of Pieter Bruegel’s landscapes, metal headpieces evocative of illuminated manuscripts, and undulating dresses with a whisper of Watteau’s influence showcased her ability to weave historical elements into garments that feel both ancient and timeless.
With this collection, Whalen reaffirms her vision: fashion as ritual, as a testament to the power of presence. In a world that often moves too fast, she offers a reason to pause, to feel, and to remember that from darkness, light will always emerge.
