“Ulla Johnson took a creative turn for Spring 2024, plunging into an artistic collaboration with Brooklyn painter Shara Hughes, resulting in a collection that could only be described as a journey through three color-soaked Surrealist dreamscapes.
The runway was set at the Powerhouse Arts, a once-abandoned Brooklyn Rapid Transit powerhouse that has been reborn as an art haven, opening its doors in July. Ulla Johnson, in her characteristic style, didn’t just make a runway; she crafted an art installation. Circular sand paintings adorned the open runway, setting the stage for the surreal spectacle that followed.
For Ulla, fine arts have always been a wellspring of inspiration, and Shara Hughes’ unique treatment of color and landscape in a psychedelic, distorted manner spoke to her profoundly. The painter had just unveiled her show at the David Kordansky Gallery in L.A., where Ulla herself had launched an impressive flagship designed by none other than Kelly Wearstler.
Ulla Johnson has been fielding requests for more eveningwear from her clientele, and she didn’t disappoint on the runway. Frothy ruffled organza dresses painted with marbled chevron patterns and watercolor florals, trailing garlands; bias-cut lace and silk charmeuse slipdresses; and a pink Lurex jacquard volume gala gown turned heads and left an indelible mark.
But that wasn’t all; the collection featured slouchy zebra-stripe silk charmeuse pants, prism-embroidered raffia fringe tanks, featherweight ruffled knits, and denim and poplin pieces that played with a rich palette of colors, catering to a more sporty, separates-driven mood.
The outcome? A potent collection that exuded ease and sophistication. Less Bali, more eclectic artistry, with a keen eye for sculptural shapes and volumes. It’s a move that’s sure to draw luxury customers into Ulla Johnson’s orbit, appealing to those who already gravitate towards Dries Van Noten, Marni, and Missoni.”
Art meets fashion, and the result is pure magic! 🎨✨
