The Bite Magazine - Spring/Summer 2025 - Issue 37

bitecatwalk MASHA POPOVA M asha Popova delivered a remarkable show that fully embraced the beauty of chaos, trans- forming it into one of fashion’s most genuine expressions. Those little moments—a strap slipping off a shoulder, a hem hitching mid-step, or a for- gotten bikini tie—were not mistakes but rather intentional elements of the designer’s unique narrative. Her signature energy, vibrant and spirited, was still present but felt more focused and deliberate. This collection, titled ‘Impulse’, res- onates deeply. It captures the essence of a woman recalling her carefree youth, adding a layer of irony and affection to her garments. Partly inspired by Exhibition In Paris by Patrick Magaud, a captivating book filled with candid photographs of women in various moments of undress throughout the city, the collection reflects a style caught in transition. Dresses were playfully hiked, twisted, and gathered, each thoughtfully crafted to resonate with that in-between moment captured beautifully in the book. No detail felt out of place; even the raw seams and askew straps were placed with artistic precision. Adding to the excitement, Popova collaborated with adidas to create 65 pairs of custom Superstar 82 trainers, each me- ticulously hand-painted, distressed, and embellished with antique brass studs. The bold black and white palette with hints of rust and electric blue evoked a sense of nostalgia reminiscent of garage grit mingling with the essence of carefree suburban summers. These were shoes designed for living, not preserving! Tweed found its way into Popover’s line-up in an unexpected twist. It was deconstructed and reimagined in her capable hands—fibrous, frayed, and bold in its patchwork style. It lent a grown-up edge to the collection, embodying a sense of rebellion mixed with maturity; think of a punk who em- braced their inner wild while climbing the corporate ladder, all with intentional flair. The underlying theme of imperfec- tion as a form of truth was beautifully woven throughout, celebrating authenticity rather than glossing over it. The de- signer offered clothing and narratives of meaning, identity, and emotion. Her work invites us to explore fashion’s depths in refreshing and resonant ways. The collection was tactile and tender yet retained her usual edge. It expertly balanced softness with an edge. Gold-toned sculptural jewellery, such as a necklace resembling a knotted scarf, accentuated the delicate, exposed silhouettes. This fi- nal chapter was not merely a continuation of Popova’s work but an evolution. She is still racing down the highway, but now there’s a reflection in the rearview mirror. The designer depicts life as it unfolds. It is unfiltered, unfinished, and unapologetically hers. https://masha-popova.com FASHION WEEK LONDON Spring/Summer 2025