Would you stop yourself from falling into a deep, dark rabbit hole if you knew the wonders it would lead you to? Free-falling into the unknown may seem scary, though your therapist might tell you that letting go of control and is the only way to truly evolve. However, a literal fall down the rabbit hole is not the only way to explore your individuality – nor is sitting down for tea with a madman in a hat, for that matter. In celebration of the wonders of imagination and the curiosities of fantasy, Spanish slow fashion brand Cassum Studios launches its current collection titled “Alice in Wonderland”, fusing classic tailoring with whimsical silhouettes inspired by the beloved children’s tale.
Words by Fernanda Russomano
Based in Barcelona, Cassum Studios is a womenswear brand established by a young collective that takes an aware and sustainable approach to fashion. With its main mission to move away from overproduction, the brand focuses on crafting versatile pieces by hand, launching limited editions that are “fashionable without short-lasting trends, and fulfills traceability and transparency criteria of its production.” Deriving its name from the Latin word Cassum which means “Empty”, the main concept of the Barcelona-based womenswear brand is that “garments are a void of emotions in the absence of a wearer” that, once worn, come to life.
Your style is a well orchestrated symphony between the creators and the final wearer. Dressing is a conversation without words and an emotion without being overly reflective.
— Cassum Studios’ statement in the brand’s website
Bringing a sense of surrealism and playfulness to the collection whilst celebrating its homeland, the campaign is set at Catalunya en Miniatura, a miniature park devoted to scale models of Spain’s most iconic buildings. Up front the small-scale size of Gaudí’s famous Basílica de la Sagrada Família or atop a realistic large-scale slug, the model showcases the collection’s versatile and timeless pieces that can easily complement any wardrobe.
With this collection, we wanted to capture that sense of magic and translate it into wearable art. We aimed to create pieces that are both timeless and fantastical, allowing women to embrace their individuality and express their unique style.
— Lena, Cassum Studios’ creative director.
Mixing deconstructed pieces with draped-satin dresses and semi-sheer garments, the collection is a juxtaposition of elements that define modern women. It reimagines structured silhouettes that were once strictly worn by men, matched with flared shapes and cropped lengths that accentuate the female form. With a color palette of neutral tones, both pale and dark, and a variety of responsibly sourced fabrics such as cotton, organza, and wool, the collection encompasses a diverse set of garments, from elegant evening dresses to tailored blazers with matching wide-leg trousers. Alongside oversized pieces, some fitted silhouettes are also featured such as a mushroom-print jumpsuit, a high-neck velvet bodysuit and a minidress with cut-out shoulders.
The collection captures the essence of adventure, curiosity and the surreal. Each garment is meticulously crafted with attention to detail, showcasing the brand’s commitment to craftsmanship. The result is a stunning range that evokes a sense of wonder and invites wearers to embark on their own fashion journey.
— Cassum Studio press release
All images courtesy of Cassum Studios.
Photography Elizaveta Litovka @floweirdy
Styling Ira Lan @lan_ira
Assisted by Kristina Liuta @krs_oleksandrivna
Model Mari Orlova @mariorlova01
Makeup and hair Jenya Temnikova @jenyatemnikova
Cassum Studios
