The vision: to transform the most daring BMW into a canvas for couture inspiration. Fabrics were not only used for the interior, but also brought to the exterior. As a result, a striking ultramarine colour radiates remarkable vibrancy and dresses the BMW XM MYSTIQUE ALLURE in a bold and extravagant tailored suit.
To achieve a truly luxurious feel, it was crucial to mix different materials, a principle common in fashion, where combining various textures enhances the overall aesthetic. Silky and knitted fabrics, for instance, complement each other, highlighting their unique characteristics. For this car, BMW used different nuances of ultramarine, and through the combination of complementary materials – an intensely saturated velvet and a fabric covered with sequins in a frozen metallic look – the result turned out to be exceptional.
The sequinned fabric, with a matt surface reminiscent of the signature BMW frozen colours, is sourced from Swiss manufacturer Jakob Schlaepfer, renowned for supplying textiles to prestigious fashion houses such as Dior and Chanel. This collaboration cultivates unforeseen design opportunities, paving the way into uncharted territories.
The detailed creation process of the bespoke high-performance luxury car was characterised by ambitious steps taken to ensure its uniqueness and extravagance. Extensive 3D exploration was carried out to arrive at the ideal composition. However, as is typical with digital concepts, translating them into reality posed new challenges. Precise adjustments were necessary to ensure the perfect balance of aesthetics. There were no established processes for applying textiles to the body of a vehicle, and due to the dimensions of the BMW XM and the maximum width of fabric available, bespoke cuts and creative craftsmanship were required.
It is the attention to detail that makes the BMW XM MYSTIQUE ALLURE so valuable. By carefully cutting and fitting the fabrics, the vehicle is not only aesthetically unique, but also conveys a sense of authenticity and mastery. This approach contrasts with standard industrial production methods used in car manufacturing and emphasises the dedication and skill required.
In the pursuit of highlighting the synergy among materials, careful examination was given to how they harmonise with each other. Combining something shiny with a more pronounced feature enhances the overall impression. In the design process, high-gloss elements were utilised, especially on the vehicle’s signature features. The velvet boasts exquisite softness and has an irresistibly smooth texture. Complementarily, the sequins introduce an extraordinary effect that intrigues and allures. The result is an organic, almost animalistic quality, a customised skin for the exaggerated proportions of the BMW XM. The visual experience almost mirrors dressing for a special occasion. Does this dress call for a necklace? Should the belt be raised slightly higher, or is it better left as is?
Staying ahead of the curve
The overall goal for this one-off show car was clear: it needed to be a smooth, monolithic masterpiece with as few changes as possible to preserve the expressive characteristics of the BMW XM. The vehicle should have a clear and uniform appearance, free of distracting elements. To achieve this, careful consideration was required, particularly regarding the side view, where a single line runs the length of the vehicle and separates the two fabric materials used.
Part of the vision was also the appearance of the kidneys, which are an iconic part of every BMW. They had to integrate seamlessly and provide a clean, closed look without disrupting the vehicle’s visual harmony. With only two primary textile materials in play, it was important to present them in generous, uninterrupted surfaces.
This careful approach results in a vehicle with a bold presence. The clean lines and uniform surfaces convey a sense of strength and sophistication, making the BMW XM MYSTIQUE ALLURE an icon of modern extravagance.
The interior, including the unique centre section, has also been handcrafted specifically for this vehicle, adding to its exclusivity and desirability. The exceptional M Lounge in the rear is now particularly inviting thanks to the plush velvet upholstery. The richness of the velvet complements the striking geometry and diamond-shaped pattern lines, enhancing the luxurious ambiance. This fabric also contributes to the feeling of relaxation and comfort, transforming the rear seats into an inviting retreat.
A distinctive feature of the interior of the BMW XM is the sculpted headliner. It boasts intricate details and features elaborate 3D contours. Indirect lighting adds a special touch. In the case of this one-off, a soft, bluish violet shimmer accentuates the beauty of the headlining and perfectly complements the velvet material. The same velvet found on the exterior now takes on a whole new form when applied to the softer, more curved interior surfaces such as the seats. This creates a fascinating contrast that enhances the material’s depth and luxuriousness, especially in mysterious low light.
The ambitious goal was to maintain the original design of the car while introducing unexpected elements of extravagance that underline the luxury and ambience of the vehicle. Subtle changes with a significant impact create a truly unique and opulent feel inside and out.
The personalisation of this vehicle is the ultimate form of dedication to Naomi Campbell, who will grace the Cannes Film Festival this year with her presence alongside the BMW XM MYSTIQUE ALLURE.
Inspired by Campbell’s bold ethos of dedication, determination and drive, as well as the contemporary, progressive luxury statement of BMW with the BMW XM MYSTIQUE ALLURE, Grammy and Academy Award-winning composer Hans Zimmer has created a bespoke sound design that captures the supermodel’s aura within the vehicle. Approaching the vehicle, a signature sound sets the stage for an unforgettable experience. Upon entering the car, the feeling of luxury and sophistication is further enhanced by a welcome sound in the cabin. However, perhaps most captivating of all is the Aura sound inside, dedicated to the presence of Naomi Campbell herself – bold, challenging the ordinary and redefining the idea of progressive luxury. The Mystical Aura Sounds immerse the passenger in an atmosphere of unrivalled elegance.
This was a singular opportunity to work with BMW and Naomi to create a bold sound profile for this unique BMW XM MYSTIQUE ALLURE, extending the high-fashion materials and visuals into the auditory experience. The sounds are inspired by Naomi Campbell and are meant to be bold, challenge the ordinary and redefine the idea of luxury. With this truly one-of-a-kind vehicle, the sounds are meant to extend the edgy design approach and evoke couture-inspired emotions.
Hollywood film composer
Driven by dedication
The parallels between Naomi Campbell’s bold character and the BMW XM MYSTIQUE ALLURE are remarkable. Both excel in skilfully combining contrasts, effortlessly merging strength with softness and sportiness with elegance. They don’t follow trends; instead, they set them by confidently expressing their unique individuality.
This exceptional vehicle isn’t meant for everyday use, but rather for those singular moments: the BMW XM MYSTIQUE ALLURE glides along the coast of Cannes with its esteemed passenger, the sea mysteriously reflected in the sequins – an icon dedicated to an icon.
There are three aspects: dedication, determination and drive. You have to love what you do and keep at it, even if people don’t always straightforwardly understand all your motives. When I do something, I see it through the end.
Model, Actress, Cultural Innovator
Author: Tassilo Hager; Art: Lucas Lemuth, Madita O’Sullivan; Photos: BMW; Video: BMW
