Every collection we create at Untouched World starts with a small kernel of an idea—a phrase, an image, a place—which our team expertly grows and evolves into a fully fledged design story encompassing everything from colour palettes and prints to textures and fabrics.
For SS24, it all started with reflection, both philosophical and literal. “It was about looking at where we have come from, the progress we’ve made, perhaps what we could do differently, as well as how reflection plays out in patterns and textures,” says brand director Vanessa Campbell.
The lightness of dappled sunshine upon the surface of the ocean, the depth of the reflections in an inky blue pool, and the abstract beauty of water in a vase cast against a white wall all converge with much-needed conversations about where we all go from here for SS24. As a collection, ‘On Reflection’ is both a design concept and a reflection of our culture, our purpose and our personality. We want to look beyond what we see in the mirror and explore what lies beneath the surface, that we may not at first notice.
Imagine looking into the water and seeing the shades of summer looking back at you, hints of nature creeping across the surface: the steely blue of the sky, the soft pistachio of the leaves, tidewater, rose dust, earthy bronze and amber. There’s so much to see if we look a little harder.
From a design perspective, that drive to unearth the small details looks like our signature kite logo hidden within prints, undulating ripple motifs, and subtle mottled effects expressed in life sustaining earthy shades and on innovative new fabrics. Unexpected twists and fresh takes on classics are scattered throughout the collection, bringing new life to much-loved designs.
Evolving the collection from first concept to wearable pieces is a case of our design team carefully extracting the key details and reimagining them in fabric. Alongside hazy pastel prints you’ll find rippled, reflective effects translated into textural knit structures, explains Campbell. Look out for the Ayah Singlet, the Indi Vest, the Kala Wrap, and the Amira Sweater, among others.
As ever, amongst the creativity, the practicalities aren’t forgotten. “Silhouettes are kept simple but with airy breathability in mind,” says Campbell. “Everything has been designed with beautiful drapes and interesting texture.” Whatever the inspiration, our pieces are always created to transcend the trend cycle and earn a long-lasting spot in your wardrobe. “Less but essential” was a key phrase for SS24 – we hone the details but never add anything superfluous.
Our pared back silhouettes mean our fabrics have to work hard and this season, and SS24 sees the introduction of some delicious new fabrics including mohair/silk knits that are soft against the skin and inherently trans-seasonal. You’ll also find cool linen/cotton knits including the Kaia Tee, the Naia Wrap Top and the Olly Polo, and CoolTree—a luxurious, temperature regulating mix of merino and TENCEL™—is expanded into new styles such as the Luna Tee, which pairs beautifully, Cambell says, with the Alice Pleat skirt for weddings and special occasions.
Also new for SS24 is a pioneering cotton/paper blend. “It’s light and luxe with a dappled look adding a little interest,” says Campbell.
Though the collection exudes an effortless air, not a single detail is accidental. From the first moodboard to the finished pieces, every design decision is meticulously made to tell a story. Each garment mirrors nature’s elegance and strength; translating nature’s beauty and allowing it to guide our designs is the essence of who we are.
It’s our pleasure to bring you along on the journey from concept to collection. To explore more of SS24:
