Elevated Streetwear: The Steven Meisel x Zara Collaboration

In September, the fashion world will witness the consolidation of photographer Steven Meisel’s enduring professional relationship with Zara as the brand unveils a striking collection he has meticulously crafted. This collection, which exudes a darkly seductive charm, encompasses a range of clothing and accessories designed for both women and men. 

The collection finds its inspiration in the distinct personal style of the renowned photographer himself. It features an array of wardrobe staples, including jeans, hoodies, overcoats, parkas, trapper hats, bandanas, and engineer boots, all echoing Meisel’s own fashion choices. These pieces predominantly showcase a dramatic interpretation of functional Americana, predominantly in a timeless black hue. However, much like Meisel’s photographic work, where every image is a reflection of his personal experiences, even the surreal and extravagant ones, this collection delves into the dreamy realms of his personal obsessions.

Among the standout pieces is a croc-printed coat, reminiscent of the streamlined pop fashion of the 1960s, which has had a lasting influence on Meisel. The faux fur coat evokes the glamour of a 1960s pop star, while the laced-up leather shirt and laced-crotch trousers borrow from the rock ‘n’ roll bad boy’s wardrobe.

Music and fashion’s edgy intersection has long been a wellspring of inspiration for Meisel. This influence is evident in items such as the grunge-inspired plaid shirt, featured prominently in one of his iconic fashion editorials from the early 1990s, and the oversized denim jacket adorned with sequins, exuding a sense of glamor. The elegantly intricate graphics on the t-shirts harken back to Meisel’s early days as a fashion illustrator.

The collection bears the name “Steven Meisel New York,” reflecting its essence as a heartfelt homage to the photographer’s hometown. To complement the clothing, Meisel has created portraits of 26 individuals who, in various enigmatic ways, represent facets of his own identity. Among these figures, the legendary Linda Evangelista stands out, alongside other model collaborators, both past and present, including Amber Valletta, Liya Kebede, Irina Shayk, Gigi Hadid, Kaia Gerber, Penelope Tree, Eva Herzigova, Alton Mason, Ash Stymest, and Scott Barnhill. Meisel collaborated with his longtime partners, including stylist Karl Templer, makeup artist Pat McGrath, and hair stylist Guido Palau, emphasizing the deeply personal nature of this project.

In many ways, this project stands out for its radical approach. Steven Meisel, known for pushing the boundaries of fashion with his intricate and provocative photo-stories, is now set to shed light on his own unique perspective on dressing, offering a remarkably accessible celebration of his fashion legacy—a true legend of the industry, made tangible.

“Steven Meisel New York” will be available for purchase starting from September 18, 2023, on Zara.com and at selected retail locations. Additionally, pop-up stores will be open at the following dates and locations:

– September 9th to 13th, 2023, at 33 Howard St. Soho NYC.

– September 15th to 17th, 2023, at Dover Street Market London.