Nanushka Gives Poor Art A New Meaning

Where sustainability meets minimalism

Exploring the unconventional materials associated with the 1960s Italian modernist movement Arte Povera, which translates to Poor Art, is where Sandra Sandor, the Hungarian label’s creative director, got the inspiration for the Nanushka’s Resort 2022 collection. 

The collection titled, “Material Forms”, offers an interpretation of the movement’s concept – that art can be made free from the restraints of traditional practices and materials. 

“Material Forms is built around a subversive yet elevated use of everyday elements, manifested through craft and hand technique. Responsible values are always at the heart of Nanushka,” said Sandor. 

The use of bold colors and raw materials by creatives Luciano Fabro and Marisa Merz, inspired her to rediscover the beauty in the basics and the fundamentals. Concertina pleats featured on dress sleeves, jackets and shirting are inspired by Transylvanian national costume – reworked to be both contemporary and refined. Traditional Hungarian cut-out shapes are interpreted as modern geometrics. 

Reinforcing the brand’s sustainable value, Sandor made the eco-friendly decision to use recycled plastic blend cotton on pleated pieces and vegan leather off-cuts to make woven basket bags. 

Shirts and pants are created out of a fabric often associated with bedding, cotton percale, to create maximum comfort. A material innovation made exclusive to Nanushka, Dribble Ribbon is used on the 3D slip tops. 

This collection also introduces Nanushka’s first beachwear including a range of swimsuits, kaftans, pareos, shorts, shirts and beach towels that delivers the same energy of “Material Forms” in its use of color, texture and shape. 

Taking note in Arte Povera’s use of strong colour, vibrant hues run throughout the entire collection: orange and green add dynamic, energetic pops of color to the naturalistic Nanushka palette.

Keeping up with the 60s vibe, psychedelic floral prints are seen on dresses and shirts while ultrasuede was used on a pair of pants that was made from the same company Halston used. These pants provide a nice contrast to the many vegan leather pieces in the collection. 

The psychedelic floral print was created by Janet Lee, who was involved in the Nanushka Design for Life Mentorship Program, and will receive 20% of sales of the look. 

Take a closer look at the entire Nanushka Resort 2022 Collection below: 

 

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