On Tuesday afternoon, Robert Rodriguez welcomed guests into a gallery-style presentation to introduce his new sustainable luxury eveningwear label Koltson by Robert Rodriguez.
“[The brand started] immediately after I left Halston. One of the reasons why I left is because this was something that was in the back of my mind and I really wanted to pursue because I felt it was my passion. I have had the name registered since 2019 — to me, it’s all about timing, and this felt like the right time,” Rodgriuez, the former chief creative officer of Halston and his prior namesake label, said in a preview call.
“What I wanted to do was collaborate with different artists and bring art and fashion together in a unique way while supporting our local communities and production, because I feel that’s part of our sustainability efforts. Something must be done, and I hope I can play a part in it,” he explained during the presentation, which featured large-scale paintings by New York abstract expressionist Vicky Barranguet hung behind Rodriguez’ fashionable evening takes on her works.
The designer said he collaborated with Barranguet to choose the works’ palette and mood — noting “something abstract, modern and romantic” was of importance — before translating the paintings’ details into prints, foils and hand-drawn embroideries on his draped silhouettes (all of which were made from certified and natural fabrics). For instance, a crepe minidress with ostrich feather neckline; a backless gold metal draped jersey gown; printed strapless minis, and a double-layer sheer georgette caftan gown with feather embroideries. Updated, sexier takes on the caftan — which Rodriguez dubbed “a blank canvas” — was prominently featured throughout.
Through the marriage of fashion, art and sustainability, Rodriguez’ collection embodied elegance with a fresh face.