In September during fashion week in New York, Akris’ Albert Kriemler was honored with the 2016 Couture Council Award for Artistry of Fashion by The Couture Council of The Museum at FIT. A notable accolade, Kriemler took the occasion as an opportunity to show Akris’ spring/summer 2017 collection for the very first time in New York, instead of his usual presentation in Paris. The beautiful line was inspired by the work of artist Carmen Herrera, whose retrospective show opened the same week at The Whitney Museum of American Art.
It wasn’t the first time Kriemler shaped a collection around an artist’s vision. He’s dreamed up garments around the work of photographer Thomas Ruff, designer and architect Sou Fujimoto, and starchitects Herzog & de Meuron, too. For Akris’ Cruise 2017 collection, which is now available at the fashion label’s Bal Harbour store, however, he turned his eye toward a more athletic artistry—that of horse jockeys and horse racing. A surprising muse for some, the graphic color combinations that reference jockey uniforms pop in accessories like the iconic Ai bag and bold knits, while the plush neutrals and materials that allude to fine thoroughbreds lend perfectly to outerwear and pony hair tassels.
Akris’ Cruise 2017 collection
We especially love the black-and- white reversible houndstooth jacquard knit overcoat, mini skirt, and matching Ai bag, but seriously covet the graphic sunset scene of galloping horses printed on another coat. Kriemler also introduced a playful new print of a repeating jockey image in a surprisingly architectural diagonal pattern. The designer also seemed to have a bit of fun naming the color fabric swatches that make up the collection after different breeds (Cremello), racehorses (Seabiscuit, Moonstone, and Whirlaway), equestrian figures (Iceman), courses (Goodwood), and stakes (Champagne).
So while the first of the Triple Crown contests—the Kentucky Derby—won’t take place until May, with Akris this winter, you’ll be off to the races… or at least dressed for them.
Akris’ Cruise 2017 collection
Akris’ Cruise 2017 collection
To find out more about Miami Art Week 2016, pick up the new issue of Whitewaller Miami.
Akris’ Cruise 2017 collection
