S/S25 The Soft Influence of Surrealism

Rejecting the notion of rational thinking, surrealism becomes an important artistic expression—a reprieve from mundanity. Finding the balance between the unconventional and the uncanny, surrealism invites you to express yourself in a dreamlike state. For SS25, designers look to the subconscious and inject their designs with a sense of ethereal fluidity and whimsy.

Picture: Ming Ma Lace Raglan Sleeve Blazer, Huishan Zhang Francesca Trouser, David Koma Crystal Claw Embroidered Detail Asymmetric Dress, Anna Quan Tamara Top

SWEET, BUT TOUGH

A key element of surrealism is recognising that there’s more than meets the eye. Masculine silhouettes take on a touch of femininity; while sweet silhouettes carry a hint of toughness for S/S25. Evoking sharp groom’s tailoring and delicate bridal styling, Ming Ma’s Lace Raglan Sleeve Blazer epitomises surrealism. Lined in silk, the Francesca Trouser offers unseen softness—a quiet luxury felt by the wearer, not by others. Crafted in fluid jersey, this David Koma dress features a crystal claw, injecting a subtle yet severe sense of toughness.

Picture: Lapointe Satin Bias Slit Midi Skirt, Kimhekim Organza Shirt & Pleated Wrap Mini Skirt Set, Toga Archives Mix Garment Dye Skirt in Beige

UNAPOLOGETICALLY FEMININE

Juxtaposing the conventional idea of balance, surrealism can manifest in the form of hyperfemininity as an escape from the everyday. The LaPointe Satin Bias Midi Skirt features a daring side slit that imbues a fluid sense of allure. Soft, sheer and sweet, KIMHEKIM’s matching Organza Shirt & Pleated Wrap Mini Skirt Set brings upon an ethereal charm. Toga Archives’ Mix Garment Dye Skirt evokes otherworldly femininity with its cascading ruffles and raw hems.

Picture: Peggy Hartanto Cadeau Pants in Whisper, Coperni Off Shoulder Taffeta Top, Peggy Hartanto Bataille Dress in Whisper

SCULPTURAL GARMENTS

A large element of surrealism is playing with uncanniness—is it this or that? Things may appear rigid in form, but fluid in feel. A master of sculpted craftsmanship, Peggy Hartanto’s Cadeau Pants are the perfect example of precise tailoring with a touch of playfulness. In the same vein, the oversized bow detailing in the Bataille Dress creates a statuesque impression that lengthens the silhouette. Coperni’s Off-Shoulder Taffeta Top emulates a similar flair with its oversized, off-the-shoulder silhouette and ruched detailing.