Wales Bonner‘s Spring/Summer 2025 collection, unveiled during Paris Fashion Week, is a poignant ode to Black British fashion history. At its core lies the vibrant legacy of Althea McNish, the groundbreaking artist and textile designer of African-Caribbean descent, who, upon relocating to London in the 1950s, became a pioneering figure in British design.
Drawing inspiration from McNish’s archive, accessed through the McNish estate, Bonner reimagines the designer’s creative journey. Original prints and embroideries are reinterpreted, adorning collared shirts and hip-draping skirts. McNish’s signature tropical aesthetic finds unexpected elegance when paired with Savile Row tailoring, courtesy of a collaboration with Anderson and Shepard. The result? A dazzling display of shimmering metal and sequin embellishments.
The runway also witnessed the debut of a new collaboration with Adidas Originals. A black and silver-sequined Adidas Samba adds a touch of urban cool, while the Adidas Originals by Wales Bonner collection expands to encompass refined men’s and women’s silhouettes, including stylish beachwear. A fresh footwear silhouette, the Country Low, makes its entrance in khaki suede and a striking black and white leather iteration, proudly showcasing the brand’s iconic Three-Stripe mark. The collection also features a deconstructed Superstar Hi-top in suede, adding a contemporary edge to this classic sneaker.
Ahead, see some of the looks from the collection:
Written By Eyram Rafael.
