Alexander Wang’s new store at the Fontainebleau in Las Vegas has opened with a bang, exceeding its monthly sales goal on the very first day. This success can be attributed to the pre-fall collection’s unique and highly relevant aesthetic, perfectly capturing the spirit of Vegas’s desert oasis.
Wang’s inspiration for this collection comes from a fascinating blend of Mad Max’s post-apocalyptic world and the iconic glamour of Las Vegas showgirls. He envisions a “postapocalyptic showgirl”, a character who embodies the ruggedness of a Mad Max warrior, adorned with the sparkle and flair of a Vegas performer.
The collection reflects this vision with a blend of tough and glamorous elements. Denim and leather, seemingly weathered by the desert sun, are paired with padded shoulders inspired by Tina Turner’s iconic Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome character. This juxtaposition creates a captivating visual story, blending the primal decadence of the film with the glitz and glamor of Vegas.
Further enhancing the Vegas vibe are hotfix-crystal camisoles and cocktail dresses, perfect for a night out on the Strip. For a more relaxed look, the collection offers track pants and athletic shorts with a liquid sheen, suitable for a showgirl’s off-duty hours.
The fall collection, also inspired by the gritty world of Mad Max, features motocross leathers, heavy-duty black jeans, faux-fur jackets, and hip-high cuissards. The signature Ricco bag, with its distinctive trapezoidal stud detailing, has been reimagined in a multitude of shapes and materials, including a football-inspired version that nods to his sporty spring 2010 collection.
Wang’s childhood trips to Vegas, often for Chinese New Year celebrations, clearly played a role in his design process. He acknowledges his admiration for the original Mad Max films and even suggests that George Miller, the director, might consider working with him on future installments of the franchise. The unique blend of post-apocalyptic grit and Vegas glamour in Wang’s collection is sure to captivate fashion enthusiasts and fans of the Mad Max films alike.
