Seductive Moments That Inspired Ludovic de Saint Sernin's NYFW Show
“It goes into an exploration of sex.” – de Saint Sernin
European designer Ludovic de Saint Sernin launched his namesake label in 2017, thriving throughout the continent. But two elements of the designer’s brand have remained undeniable: New York remains its strongest consumer and sex is its strongest influence.
When news broke of the designer’s New York Fashion Week showcase, de Saint Sernin lovers expected nothing less than sexy silhouettes that tapped BDSM, luxurious textures, skin and very cunty influences — which de Saint Sernin did not skimp on.
The runway show was every BDSM bae’s dream featuring luxurious leather, metallic detailing that dripped down silhouettes, flower-detailing for a feminine touch, and even standout underwear as outerwear moments.
Keep scrolling for our favorite influences from Ludovic de Saint Sernin FW24.
Sex
According to the European designer, “The show starts with something that’s very pure and minimal before it goes into an exploration of sex,” he told HYPEBEAST backstage. “I wanted to show the lifelong journey that is discovering your identity, your sexuality.”
Gimp Masks
Vogue Runway/Isidore Montag/Gorunway.com
Vogue Runway/Isidore Montag/Gorunway.com
Gimp masks have largely dominated discussions of power play in the world of kink. Donned by submissives, gimp masks are a piece of a gimp suit, which is a leather suit that fully covers the body. Like the rise of chaps within the queer community, gimp masks have been adopted by gay men as a part of leather culture which offered sexual liberation.
Robert Mapplethorpe’s Queer Legacy
Inspired by the sensorial nature of photographer Robert Mapplethorpe’s work, de Saint Sernin collaborated with Robert Mapplethorpe Foundation to bring the debut collection to life. ”Robert’s work allowed me to be free,” de Saint Sernin told HYPEBEAST backstage. “I want this collection to provide that feeling for others, too.”
Mapplethorpe was not only known for nude portraiture, but also contributed a large part of his career to playing with his queer identity. In honor of the highly respected queer photographer, de Saint Sernin honors his work through Mapplethorpe’s famous flowers, this time merging with the sheer trend on backless tops.
Also pointing to Mapplethorpe, is the use of leather on suits and corporate wear. For the collection, the European designer uses flowers as a sign of purity, and as the show progresses, models “undress” into de Saint Sernin’s seductive signature.
In other news, Barry Keoghan poses nude for Valentine’s Day.
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