Although Carolina Herrera is recognized for its adherence to classic designs, it occasionally surprises its audience. For instance, the announcement of the Resort 2024 collection by Wes Gordon took a departure from the usual lookbook or presentation in New York City. Instead, the brand opted for an elaborate runway show in Rio de Janeiro.
In an interview with Fashionista prior to the show, Wes Gordon, the designer behind the Resort 2024 collection, shared that the company has experienced significant growth in recent years. This prompted discussions about organizing a destination show for the first time. According to Gordon, the decision to choose Rio de Janeiro was clear to him. Carolina Herrera has a remarkable Latin heritage that they take great pride in, and he felt it was essential to showcase the collection in a South American setting. Gordon highlighted that Brazil has been an increasingly important market for the brand, particularly in the areas of beauty and fragrance. Being able to present the collection in a place that truly embraces and celebrates all aspects of the Herrera brand was a highly exciting opportunity for them.
As someone who had never been to Rio before, Wes Gordon relied on his perception of the city as an outsider to influence the Resort 2024 collection. He described Rio as a place that exudes romance, beauty, vibrancy, and joy. This perception guided the creative direction of the collection. Gordon incorporated his signature lively and bold use of color, aiming for a tonal and warm palette that mimics the hues of a stunning sunset over the water. The collection retains the brand’s inherent DNA with the inclusion of polka dots and floral prints. However, Gordon introduces silhouettes that are more form-fitting and revealing than what one might typically expect from Carolina Herrera. Nonetheless, the designs strike a balance, ensuring they are not excessively elaborate or overdone.
According to Wes Gordon, the Resort 2024 collection delves deeply into the iconic elements associated with Carolina Herrera. This includes the incorporation of polka dots, floral prints, and cotton shirting. However, the collection also aims to challenge conventional notions of dressiness and casualness by playing with those boundaries. Given the energetic atmosphere of Rio and the spirit of Brazil, Gordon desired to infuse the collection with a sense of lightness, ease, and modernity. He aimed for a fresh, youthful, and sensual aesthetic.
