Palomo SS26 Writes Its Own Coming-of-Age
Showing in Madrid to present ‘Eighteeen,’ Palomo draws inspiration from Sofia Coppola’s adolescent narratives, ‘Marie Antoinette’ and ‘The Virgin Suicides.’
Summary
- Palomo’s “Eighteen” collection marks a return to Spain, symbolizing a transition from its roots to a new chapter in Madrid.
- Inspired by adolescence and coming-of-age films, the collection blends youthful innocence with rebellious independence.
Designer Alejandro Gómez Palomo‘s label, Palomo, has returned to its motherland, showing its eighteenth collection, aptly titled “Eighteen.” The return home from New York Fashion Week for this debut collection marks both an ode to the label’s roots and the relocation of its workshop from the village of Posadas to the capital city of Madrid.
In a statement, the brand shared, “It has a lot to do with leaving the town where we have always been and where we started Palomo—leaving the workshop, leaving your home. It’s about beginning to distance yourself from that family nucleus you’ve been attached to your whole life. We see it reflected in the characters of the collection, but in reality, it also speaks a lot about us, the Palomo team.”
To honor the milestones represented by “Eighteen,” Palomo explores the markers of adolescence through dress: muted pastels, whimsical embroidery, and oversized bows. The first looks are cast in all white, like baptismal garments. According to the brand, this adolescent extravagance is inspired by the coming-of-age films of Sofia Coppola, like Marie Antoinette and The Virgin Suicides (think white slip dresses, extravagant gowns, and Rococo embellishments).
However, these symbols of innocence are not without tension. Leather motor jacket-inspired pieces evoke a desire for independence and grit. The powdery hues are interrupted by deep browns, olive green, and sanguine red. Bold chevron stripes are reminiscent of Barbie’s signature chevron swimsuit from the 1950s—perhaps an homage to the ubiquitous doll that has come to represent a rite of passage for girlhood.
Then, power suits enter the mix, boldly represented by a black men’s suit with Victorian shoulders and a chevron pussy bow collar. Next, a women’s look styles an oversized blazer with a bare chest, a knee-length skirt, and chevron tights. The collection turns back to whimsy in the end, though, incorporating Swarovski flower embellishments across a bandeau top, shirting, trousers, and the final gown. Palomo Spain may have saved the flowers for the finale, but the 33-year-old designer’s milestone show demonstrates that he is no late bloomer.
See the full Palomo SS26 collection in the gallery above and stay tuned to Hypebeast for the latest fashion industry insights.
