Marc Jacobs's Latest Show Was a Subtle Preview of Fashion's Response to Our Political Future

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In Marc Jacob’s’ Fall 2024 show notes, the designer references the idea that the “future remains unwritten.” While this, in part, is a cheeky nod to front row occupant Natasha Beddingfield (who’s 2006 hit “Unwritten” was an early aughties anthem), it was also an acknowledgement of the current state of the world and how fashion reflects that.

The show itself, which took place in the New York Public Library on the evening of July 1, was Marc Jacobs through and through. In the same way he has done both in the earlier days of his brand and in more recent collections, the show included looks with bright colors and contrasting lines, textures that look like they’re moving but are really just frozen in motion, doll-like oversized shoes, and so much exaggeration in every little detail. One dress was an ode to the famous Marilyn Monroe photo where her dress blows up to her waist as she holds it down in the front. Most of the looks were an angular and larger version of a classic silhouette (notably without size diversity among the models).

What does that have to do with the future then if it’s an extension of what we’ve come to know? Perhaps it’s exactly that. Further on in his notes, Jacobs writes that he “believes in living with authenticity — free from validation and permission of absurd conservatism and societal norms."

While there will always be a portion of designers who directly address world politics through statement tees and set decor, fashion’s interpretation of a moment isn’t typically derivative. And this show is highlighting that in another moment when it seems a hard shift towards conservative politics around the world might catapult us to a place that punishes both creativity and boldness, the greatest statement, and one Jacobs is decidedly making, is remaining completely true to your art and in turn who you are.

Originally Appeared on Teen Vogue

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