Designers draw on horror folklore for fall collections

Designers have been inspired by fairy tales for fall collections, but this season they've taken a darker turn by embracing horror folklore in their designs.

Chopova Lowena's latest collection features deconstructed skirts with fuzzy pom-poms and faux fur panels that evoke the eerie atmosphere of the forest witch Baba Yaga and the malevolent swamp fairy Kikimora. The brand's signature tactile touch is still evident, but this time it's been twisted to create a sense of unease. The result is a collection that's far removed from traditional notions of fashion.

Caroline Hú's designs also draw on horror folklore, with models wearing destroyed lace blazers and patchworked gowns adorned with embroidered ants. The garments are not just aesthetically striking but also tell a story through their intricate details. According to the designer, these pieces were inspired by a somber fairy tale about a girl who leaves home and becomes trapped in an unfamiliar world.

The horror folklore concept is perhaps best exemplified at Pipenco's recent spring/summer 2027 show, which was staged partially outdoors amidst storm clouds and lively wind. Models walked through the grass wearing gravity-defying knitted creations, accessorized with wooden stumps that evoke Muma Pădurii, mother of the forest in Romanian folklore.

As Duran Lantink's designs continue to captivate audiences worldwide, his latest collection blends heritage elements from various cultures with modern sensibilities. The Dutch creative director drew inspiration from traditional folkloric clothing, incorporating iconic motifs such as the star and circle patterns found on Dutch textiles.

The resulting garments are a testament to Lantink's unique approach to fashion design, where he seamlessly merges historical references with contemporary flair. His team's extensive research in Holland uncovered an array of vintage prints featuring tulips, plaids, and stripes that were expertly combined to create the show-stopping designs.

For those familiar with Whalen's aesthetic, it comes as no surprise that her collection is steeped in a sense of mystery and intrigue. The use of doilies as central details on dresses adds an air of whimsy, while plaid bustles evoke a strong modern Victorian feel.

Designers are embracing a horror folklore aesthetic in their latest collections, injecting a sense of eeriness into fashion. This new trend is not just about evoking fear, but also about tapping into the idea that strength can be misunderstood and that harshness may be a necessary defense mechanism.

The use of dark colors, mystical symbols, and eerie motifs has become a staple in many designers' collections. For instance, forest witch-inspired designs have been spotted on runways and red carpets alike, with models showcasing intricate patterns and textures reminiscent of ancient forests.

Fashion folklore has traditionally been dominated by women, who for centuries have been the keepers and storytellers of these mystical narratives. Today's fashion folklore is no exception, as it celebrates boldness and fearlessness rather than waiting to be rescued.