In T Introduces, a singular talent makes their debut with the designer Colleen Allen, a rising star in the fashion world. Allen’s journey began while studying fashion at prestigious institutions such as Parsons School of Design in New York and Central Saint Martins in London, where she graduated in 2019. Her interest in men’s wear stemmed from her tomboyish personal style and her early exposure to sewing from her grandmother, Nana Dot. This background led her to focus on tailoring rather than draping, as she was drawn to the re-examination of masculine dress codes by designers like Jonathan Anderson and celebrities like Young Thug.
After gaining valuable experience through an internship with Raf Simons at Calvin Klein and a position at the Row, where she helped build the men’s wear division, Allen experienced a shift in perspective in 2020. Inspired by tarot and the divine feminine, she decided to transition to women’s wear. This newfound fascination with the Empress and High Priestess cards of Surrealist artist Leonora Carrington influenced her debut collection, which she showcased during New York Fashion Week last February.
Allen’s first collection features striking pieces like a cotton velvet cloak with oversize Victorian proportions, reminiscent of ceremonial attire. The color palette of tangerine orange, snow white, and blood red, inspired by Carrington’s work, aims to be energizing, transformational, and consciousness-elevating. Allen’s choice of highly textured fabrics, such as Polartec fleece, adds depth and durability to her designs. For example, a sharply tailored red maxi-length skirt suit made from Polartec fleece is washed to a cashmere-like texture, creating a luxurious yet practical garment.
The designer’s vision for her collection is to empower individuals to embrace their most magical selves. By creating pieces that exude grandeur and drama, Allen hopes to inspire confidence and a sense of transformation in those who wear her designs. Whether running errands in Brooklyn or attending a special event, Allen’s creations are meant to make the wearer feel like a powerful and enchanting presence.
In conclusion, Colleen Allen’s debut collection marks the beginning of a promising career in the fashion industry. With her unique blend of tailoring expertise, artistic inspiration, and commitment to empowering individuals through clothing, Allen is poised to make a significant impact on the world of fashion. Keep an eye out for this talented designer as she continues to push boundaries and redefine traditional notions of style and beauty.