By Alja Horvat AW23
Our autumn/winter 2023 collection is here - inspired by the songs of the previous decade and aesthetics of seventies.
Showcasing an array of vibrant prints inspired by the nostalgic allure of the 60s and 70s, Alja's latest fashion line is both visually stunning and ethically conscious.
Emphasizing sustainability and mindful production practices, Alja's collection operates on a made-to-order basis, significantly reducing the potential waste associated with unsold overstock. This approach ensures that each garment is crafted with care and purpose, offering customers a unique and environmentally responsible fashion experience.
Alja's collection is sewn by a talented freelance seamstress from her hometown of Maribor. This dedication to local craftsmanship and community collaboration reinforces the collection's commitment to responsible and ethical fashion production.
Alja's latest collection features four distinctive prints, each inspired by a song. This recurring theme in her collections adds an enchanting dimension to her work, with prints and names paying homage to iconic songs that have transcended generations.
MARIANNE
Marianne takes her name from the timeless song "So Long Marianne" by Leonard Cohen, an anthem that encapsulates the spirit of love and longing.
Just as the song lingers in our hearts, this print invites you to embrace the nostalgia and embark on a journey through the power of fashion.
With "Marianne," we pay tribute to this golden era, celebrating the unapologetic pursuit of happiness and authenticity. The floral motif symbolizes growth, rebirth, and the blooming of one's true self, reminding us to embrace our individuality and allow our spirits to flourish.
The fusion of warm, earthy tones and delicate brushwork evokes a sense of harmony and balance, mirroring the harmony sought in the hearts of those who lived through that era. Whether you wear it as a statement piece or subtly incorporate it into your ensemble, "Marianne" is a sartorial time capsule that honors the legacy of the past while embracing the present.
As you wrap yourself in this print, let it serve as a reminder that the free-spirited souls of the past continue to inspire us today. Let "Marianne" ignite your imagination, transport you to a realm of nostalgia, and empower you to embark on your own journey of self-discovery, love, and expression.
"Marianne" is a combination of artistry and nostalgia, inspired by the carefree spirit that defined an era of love, peace, and self-expression. This print beautifully captures the essence of the 70s through floral motif, evoking a sense of freedom, optimism, and the joy of embracing one's true self.
“Marianne” it’s an ode to the free-spirited souls and
invitation to journey back in time.
SWEET THING
Inspired by Van Morrison's song "Sweet Thing," this print encapsulates the cherished memories and the magical moments Alja spent in her grandmother's garden.
As you gaze upon the print, you'll be greeted by a sea of small, orange-brown flowers that delicately adorn the fabric. Each bloom carries a whisper of warmth, reminiscent of the golden sunsets that painted the sky during those unforgettable summer evenings.
Just as the song evokes feelings of pure joy and enchantment, "Sweet Thing" captures the essence of an everlasting summer romance. The vibrant colors and whimsical patterns dance harmoniously, creating an irresistible allure that awakens the senses. It's as if the print itself radiates the warmth of heartfelt embraces, the softness of whispered words, and the sweet fragrance of blooming flowers.
With every wear, "Sweet Thing" offers a gentle reminder to cherish the moments of love and beauty that life presents us. It encourages us to find solace in nature and to seek out the simple pleasures that ignite our souls. Whether you wear it on a carefree summer day or during the cool autumn breeze, this print is a testament to the enduring power of love and the everlasting beauty found in the world around us.
"Sweet Thing," is a print that holds a special place in my heart and embodies a story of cherished memories spent in my grandma’s garden.
Like the song, this print is an ode to love, capturing moments of pure joy and enchantment. Its vibrant colors and whimsical patterns encapsulate the essence of an everlasting summer romance.
A HAZY SHADE OF WINTER
A Hazy Shade of Winter is a print that draws inspiration from Simon and Garfunkel’s song “A Hazy Shade of Winter” which talks about the passage of the seasons.
This print, adorned with big flowers in shades of blues, oranges, and blacks, tells a story of the ever-changing seasons and the beauty that lies within their melancholic charm.
"A Hazy Shade of Winter" began its journey as a floral pattern, created to capture the essence and gloominess of the winter season (but with a positive and warm twist). Originally created for my solo exhibition, the print received an overwhelmingly positive response from visitors so I made the decision to include it in our upcoming collection.
Inspired by the passage of time and the shift from warmth to cold, "A Hazy Shade of Winter" captures the bittersweet essence of the season. The interplay of blues, oranges, and blacks creates a visual symphony that reflects both the frosty chill and the vibrant life that can be found amidst the winter's haze.
This print embodies the spirit of transformation and renewal, much like the seasons themselves.
TIME
Our print named Time, inspired by the iconic Pink Floyd song of the same name. Just as the lyrics explore the passing of time, this print encapsulates the longing for the moments and memories. As we get older, we realise, we need to seize each fleeting moment.
"Time" it's also a reimagined piece, initially created for my solo exhibition. By reintroducing the print in this collection, we celebrate the power of reinterpretation and the endless possibilities.
This black and white floral print exudes an air of sophistication and refinement, offering a visual symphony of contrast and harmony.
May it inspire you to create precious memories, appreciate the subtle nuances of life, and savor each moment as it unfolds.
Just as Pink Floyd's music resonates across generations, may this print serve as a timeless reminder to embrace the present, cherish the past, and look forward to the infinite possibilities that await us in the future.
