virtual violence irl
Spawning in digital land not so far away, Rohan Mirza’s SS26 collection materialises the most stylish avatars our imaginations could design IRL. As featured in Glamcult’s #142 issue, Rohan Mirza has a knack for masterfully translating otherworldly fantasies to our mortal realm. This season, the studio presents us with Stonehaven: an odyssey of virtual violence stylised. Inspired by Call of Duty’s battlefield of the same name, the collection initially debuted in the courtyard of Mirza’s alma mater during PFW. As Duperre’s cobblestones were replaced by a giant “@” shaped catwalk, guests gathered, dressed in transparent ponchos to protect themselves as the model’s blood dripped and splattered onto the audience, still fresh from their (faux) lesions
Post-fashion week, Mirza shares the collection’s looks, one by one, day by day on his Instagram, allowing us to delve deep into every one of his insanely detailed designs. Upon closer inspection, the line between battle scar (or mutation) and garment blurs as badges, shirts, watches, headphones, and belts of ammo are embedded into flesh, brought to life via a collaboration with SFX/silicon artist Loïse Hulin and tattoo artist 000001armand. With weapons in hand, fallen angels find their wings atop hats, bags, and shoes. But don’t worry, the online gremlins of COD are not forgotten entirely, with looks referencing Creepypasta lore, niche French internet personalities, or even the infamously viral “black and blue/white and gold” dress (tho we’d rather sport Mirza’s rendition).
Words by Gabriella Meshako
Images courtesy of Rohan Mirza Studio
