The Camp

Natasha Zinko welcomed us to THE CAMP for SS24 as guests gathered in the heart of Soho in the green pocket square between Oxford Street and Tottenham Court Road. Amongst the trees stood a series of tents, depicting not the recreational pursuit of some but the transient nature of humanity, particularly in the face of turbulent social and political challenges. We began as wanderers, and now, for different reasons, many of us must make this a reality again. The threat is not just from other humans but also from the threat we pose to our planet. UNHCR, the UN's refugee agency, reported that approximately 21.5 million people per year were forced to leave their homes due to extreme weather-related issues between 2008 and 2016.  

Zinko uses this collection as a platform to highlight the plight of the transient many, the environmental challenges we face, and to champion one of our greatest assets, our adaptability. The CAMP represents an optimistic take on this life on the move, offering functional details in the shape of extra pockets across the collection, whose urban-utility aesthetic comprised of cargo-motorcycle elements with ribbed knees, leather overalls and flared denim combined with hoodies, sweatpants, caps and visors. It is a collection of adaptable clothes that mirrors and exemplifies the adaptability of humans. In the spirit of solidarity, Zinko looked to one element of clothing that unites us all: underwear. "NATASHA ZINKO ORIGINALS" peeked out in bold lettering, and briefs were asymmetrically stitched together alongside a bra to create an open, sleeveless floor-length dress. At the same time, leather, monochrome brief-shaped accessories completed the look.

True to form, Natasha Zinko artfully melded playful design with meaningful commentary in one of this season's most memorable backdrops. Fashion may be fast and seem frivolous at times, but like all art and creative expression, it has a transformative power, not only for those who wear it but for those who look upon it. And for this designer, the clothes portrayed more than a seasonal message, man's adaptability being one of his greatest strengths, one that he can use not only in a reactionary manner but also in an active way, to make positive change. It was a  

collection and a message that will remain in our minds long after the last model stomped through THE CAMP. 

All images by Gaspar Ruiz Lindberg