"The Future is Behind You." The message from the new Creative Director for Courrèges, Yolanda Zobel, is clear. In office since spring 2019, she intends to shake up the rules of this design house, originally founded in 1961 by André and Coqueline Courrèges. Her first power move: removing all plastics in the name of environmental conservation. A daring step especially as vinyl jackets and PVC boots have contributed to the brand's global fame. At a time when "the world is drowning in plastic," as she explains, her futuristic vision is an extension of that of the founders, who themselves were non-conformists, shaking things up by introducing shortened lengths and employing innovative fabrics. So, for her first collection, the German designer, who started her career at Giorgio Armani before working on the women's collections at Chloé, Jil Sander and Acne Studios, opts for natural materials. And if there are any vinyl strips spotted, purifying certain key pieces, it's done to sell off stocks which "once sold, will never be renewed", confides Yolanda Zobel. Talking about cuts, the Berlin designer is inspired by the Courrèges archives, revamping mini-skirts (micro-belt style), short jackets and graphic jumpsuits as well as creating sixties-inspired silhouettes, never failing to inject contemporary style. Streetwear-style pieces are living proof, like the fitted transparent tops featuring the Courrèges flower (which acts as a breast cover) and flowing buttoned trousers, imitating joggers.
