By Isabel Castrejón
The fashions from 1920 to 1929 were a result of the difficulties of World War I. During this decade, women’s clothes became a powerful expression of the modernist approach to all forms of art. The men went to the battlefield, and women consequently entered the workforce. The dress restrictions of the time were no longer suitable for the vital and active new roles that women assumed in wartime as farm workers, drivers, and machine operators. In addition, more women had access to voting and became professionals. Dressing became relaxed and strictly simple. This helped meet the new necessities: The length of dresses became shorter, the corset became even more of a nuisance, and “male” clothing became a practical tool.
A key aspect of the modern woman’s look was “pour le sport.” Clothing developed for physical activity left its mark on fashion, while the sport itself helped achieve the “tomboy” silhouette. Women yearned for the image of “La Garçonne” from Victor Margueritte’s 1922 novel of the same name. Hair was worn short, waists dropped to the hips, and chests were flattened.
It’s interesting to study global events through the repercussions they have on fashion, since clothes are something we use every day. Considering the years that we’ve all just lived through with the pandemic, what would be the proposal of a current designer in these new ’20s? What are the new needs and desires of today’s humans? Those were the first questions we asked ourselves when we started planning this edition of Fashion Parade.
This event aims to praise and support design and creativity in San Miguel de Allende. With a different theme each year, invited designers and artists will create exclusive collections and installations that will be on sale throughout the evening. Attendees will be able to enjoy a night full of art, design, and incredibly creative people.
San Miguel is fortunate to have a lot of talent in fashion design. This year, Fashion Parade will present five fantastic designers: Christopher Fallon, Isabelle Manhes, Mariana Olvera from Eme México, José Yáñez, and more. In addition, thanks to the support of Casa Proserpina, San Miguel designer Sebastián Clares will present a capsule collection with the aim of making young talent known and supporting them on their way. They all have different and unique points of view, and we can’t wait to see what they come up with.
We couldn’t have a fashion event without highlighting the jewelry and accessory designers who do an incredible job of putting our city on the map. This year will feature Suki Palomina, María Belén Jewelry, Uno+Uno+ accessories, HART Jewelry, Cock of the Walk, and Manec will present their designs through a personalized installation.
Art and fashion have always walked hand in hand. The lines that divide them have become more and more diluted. The avant-garde period, including the 1920s, explored interdisciplinarity. That’s why we had characters like Sonia Terk-Delaunay presenting work in art galleries and at the same time designing costumes for the Ballets Russes and opening a fashion store in Paris. For this reason, and for the incredible variety of artists and creatives that are in San Miguel, we invited more than 20 people to create artistic pieces that will be exhibited during the event. We will have the work of Juan Ezcurdia, Gerardo Ruiz, Yenisett Torres, Lorenzo y Taquito, Antonio Loza, Óscar Díaz, Dyna Lomelí, Lunática, and many more.
During the event, a silent auction will be held in support of the Mujeres en Cambio organization with items donated by Bekeb, Selina Rooftop, Gustavo Duque, Complete Dental San Miguel, and Design House, among others.
Fashion Parade is a celebration of the talent of San Miguel; but also, this edition specifically is a celebration of the fact that this fantastic community of people has emerged from a very difficult period, and that on the other side, we’ve found the will to continue creating innovative and special things.
Los Nuevos ’20s will take place on November 22 at 6pm at Hacienda Los Arcángeles, behind Plaza Real del Conde.
Tickets cost 1,400 pesos and are on sale at Merakology, Correo 24, and Christopher Fallon Designs. With your ticket you will have access to all the collections and installations presented, a welcome cocktail, live music by Lixies Jazz Band, performing artists, and many more surprises.
Remember that the dress code is Twenties Inspired!
