Avavav Fall/Winter 2025 at Milan Fashion Week

Avavav Fall/Winter 2025 / FW25 at Milan Fashion Week etitled The Hole, took an intense and provocative approach, exploring themes of death anxiety and the fragility of life. The runway, set in a gallery south of Milan, featured models crawling out from a grave-like hole, symbolizing a journey from darkness to life. The eerie, unsettling backdrop, along with fresh grass and a disturbing smoke-filled atmosphere, heightened the dramatic tone of the show. This powerful visual was a reflection of Creative Director Beate Skonare Karlsson’s personal experiences with health struggles and vulnerability.

Avavav FW25 / Fall/Winter 2025 collection blended elements of feminine tailoring and goth streetwear, evoking both fragility and strength. Models emerged from the ground covered in soil and blood, portraying exhaustion and surrender, reflecting Karlsson’s struggle with her health. Her recent experiences, which brought feelings of vulnerability and loss of control, were channeled into the designs, expressing the uncertainty and quiet fear that inspired the collection. The show became a therapeutic process for Karlsson, transforming her personal fears into an artistic, tangible expression.

Throughout the collection, exaggerated anatomical illusions were featured, with ribcage cutouts and skeletal patterns appearing on garments. The unsettling aesthetics included flowy skirts, furs, and oversized denims, paired with intricate detailing and exaggerated wigs, symbolizing bodily instability and decay. One standout look showcased a model in a spectral sweatsuit with a visible pregnant belly, emphasizing the duality of power and vulnerability. Additionally, there was a juxtaposition of delicate fabrics like georgette and satin with bold, armor-like silhouettes, drawing from sportswear and evoking a battle-ready attitude.

For Avavav FW25 / Fall/Winter 2025, The collaboration with adidas Originals added another layer of bold innovation, showcasing a capsule collection that included shredded skirts, frayed tops, and a reinterpretation of classic footwear. Notably, the Moonrubber Megaride sneaker stood out for its futuristic design, featuring a sculpted sole that resembled a fictional bubble of moon goo. A reimagined Adidas Superstar also emerged, with an anatomically inspired design that distorted the classic sneaker shape. These footwear innovations aligned with Avavav’s signature approach to pushing boundaries in design.

Jewelry from Swedish brand Glitter complemented the collection, further accentuating its themes of femininity and fragility. Models wore shimmering embellishments and oversized bows, with one memorable showpiece being a weekend bag adorned in satin bows. Guests at the show also received runway pieces as mementos, further reinforcing the collection’s message of strength through vulnerability. Skonare Karlsson’s ability to fuse streetwear with avant-garde elements solidified Avavav’s commitment to challenging fashion norms and proving that creativity can thrive even in the darkest of times.