Molly Halvorson

Ysabeau,

Ysabeau explores feminism, identity and perception through storytelling and contemporary womenswear. Responding to the gender disparity surrounding women in positions of leadership within the fashion industry, the collection considers the importance of women designing for women, and clothing as a visual declaration of identity. Drawing on the storytelling of Elsa Schiaparelli and the considered approach to everyday dressing of Phoebe Philo, the collection examines how fashion can challenge expectations and communicate individuality.

Centred around a fictional heroine, Ysabeau follows a young woman navigating her understanding of identity and femininity. Set within an imagined historical period inspired by the late Edwardian era and the onset of the First World War, the narrative explores the contrast between elegance and rebellion. Through the rediscovery of girlhood and the joy of dressing up, Ysabeau embodies a wild elegance, embracing femininity as something fluid, individual and self-defined.

Translated into contemporary ready-to-wear, the collection balances traditional expressions of femininity with unexpected contrasts. A restricted colour palette establishes tension, while considered fabrications introduce depth, texture and movement. Emphasising tactile interaction and practical application, the garments invite the wearer to engage with clothing as a form of self-expression, challenging prescribed expectations of how women should dress.