DUR DOUX
'PARADIS PALMIERS'
S/S '23 READY-TO-WEAR
Birthed from the creative psyche of mother-daughter duo Najla and Cynthia Burt, Dur Doux is a luxury womenswear label that celebrates what makes us different. Created with the goal of being an affordable avenue to luxury fashion, the label’s French name directly translates to “hard soft”, which represents the dichotomy between the elegance of luxury and avant-garde sensibility of independence.
The collection itself certainly challenges the bounds of fashion through its resort-inspired aura. With the Florida Fan Palm Tree as their muse, the Burts created a 30-look collection extending from free-flowing gowns to sensual bodycon swim sets.
Bright neons and floral patterns decorated each look to transport the wearer to the tropics, and the breathable structure of their clothing displayed that there was certainly something for everyone in this collection. And of course, no look is complete without accessories. A handful of looks were accompanied by a personalized leather Nila Bag which marked Dur Doux’s debut handbag line.
What also made this runway special was the diversity of models. Fashion has long been subject to rightful critcism for idealizing lookalike individuals who have warped contemporary beauty standards, but Dur Doux embraces our differences. From different sized to different aged models, this show proved that the collection is a one-all for all, and that fashion as a whole can be that, too.
The show also featured a special partnership with the WNBA as the league’s top players sat front row in support of the label. While Lexie Brown of the Los Angeles Sparks and Michaela Onyenwere of the New York Liberty graced audiences with their presence, the Liberty’s own DiDi Richards made her debut walk down the runway in a floor-length tie-dye gown.
In addition, the production also debuted a special collection from designer Dell Scott, who showcased her S/S ‘23 collection ‘Carnivale’. From feathers to sequins, the collection transported us to parades and carnivals that remind us of youthful jubilance that invoke a sense of vibrancy within the female form.
The Burts created a collection so unique in design yet malleable in style that each wearer may accessorize their looks with their own personal charm, from statement jewelry to modish headwear. Dur Doux is doing things differently this season, and their out-of-the-box constructions have brought a tasteful sensation to the future of womenswear.