At the American Church in Paris, Florentina Leitner turned Spring/Summer 2027 into a love letter to home. Titled Raindrops on Roses, the collection takes its name from the familiar lyrics of My Favorite Things from The Sound of Music, a film Leitner only discovered while living away from her native Austria. Styled by Kerry Dorney, the presentation translated that feeling of homesickness into something playful, romantic and distinctly Austrian without slipping into costume. Traditional lederhosen were reworked in denim, dirndl blouses became contemporary tops with bow buttons, while sailor collars, uniform-like silhouettes and preppy proportions nodded to the von Trapp children. Gingham, in shades of blue, black and pink, brought memories of summer picnics and lakeside tables, alongside silk satin, organza and denim. Three-dimensional bows and floral details appeared throughout, like souvenirs from a place remembered from afar.
The collection also brought together a series of thoughtful collaborations. Leitner partnered with textile recycling company Circ, incorporating its recycled denim and pink satin into the collection, while Marie Jo returned as the lingerie partner, its floral lace bras and matching pieces becoming an intentional part of the styling. Daisy motifs and gingham effects peeked out from beneath dirndl-inspired tops, denim shorts and pleated skirts, adding an intimate layer to the nostalgic wardrobe. For footwear, Leitner reunited with Heinrich Berkemann for a second collaboration, this time creating sandals decorated with eyelet flowers and heart motifs. Together, the details capture the designer’s particular version of Heimat: not Austria as a costume, but Austria remembered through summers by the lake, clothes drying in the sun, open windows, mountains in the distance and the small familiar things that become more precious once you are far away
Credits:
Creative Director: Florentina Leitner
Production: Jens Burez
Photography: Jens Burez
Music: Menno Tomballe
Set/ Prop design: Jens Burez
