The conversation between fashion and sculpture is not a novelty, from the Schiaparelli jewelled robot toddler to the Undercover Terrarium dress. For decades, fashion designers have been challenging the notion of wearability with sculptural fashion—redefined and undefined. They are stunning, showstopping and coveted, but how practical are they? We wish to strut around effortlessly, looking like the models who stormed out the runway in these spectacular pieces. The truth is that beauty often comes with a painful price to pay, quite literally.
Some of the fashion icons have confessed that they struggled to move around in these shapeshifters—Anne Hathaway in her red Versace corset dress, Zendaya in her archive Mugler robot suit, and Dua Lipa in her Schiaparelli dress for Golden Globes 2024. The devil is in the detail if you are looking for pieces that are sculptural enough to gain you admirable stares but still comfortable to walk around the city in—unless you have a red-carpet event (or a Met Gala) to attend. Ahead, we put together some intricately designed pieces that will make you the star of the crowd with fewer compromises for comfort.
ISSEY MIYAKE, Enveloping Draped Dress
Wrap yourself like your Greek gods. This Issey Miyake dress dipped in a stunning shade of blue is the exemplary piece of “style meets comfort”.
MUGLER, Black Mugler Signature Jacket
We can’t talk about Mugler without waxing lyrically on the cinched waist details that elevates our day look, or even nights.
GENTLE MONSTER x MAISON MARGIELA, MM102 02
This pair from the highly anticipated collaboration is a blend of Gentle Monster’s craftmanship that fits an Asian face and Margiela’s forward-looking designs.
GIORGIO ARMANI, Printed Clutch Bag with Crinoline Detail
With a crinoline layer that pillowed the bag, this clutch from Giorgio Armani takes the “padded bags” trend to another level.
TOM FORD, Brass Croc Lariat Necklace
A lariat necklace draws attention not only because of it’s unique snake-like shape but also how it accentuates our necks and collars.
ACNE STUDIO, Agoflus Drop Earrings
Chunky gold earrings are a timeless yet bold statement piece that adds a hint of personality to not just an outfit but also the wearers.
KHAITE, The Sculpted Hand Cuff
A hand for a hand. This palm-shaped is a literal hand cuff that calls for the spotlight.
DIOR, Toile de Jouy Soleil Choker
The popularity of the choker shows no signs of waning, why not make it fun? This Dior choker is made for all the people who live by astrology.
JACQUEMUS, Les Doubles Sandales
Can’t decide which pair of shoes to put on for the day? Wear both, think later.
ISABEL MARANT, Alexandra Jacket
The asymmetrical cut and the corset-like detailings on the scarlet red jacket gives you both warmth and personality.
LOEWE, Dress in Viscose Blend
The drapes on this dress might make it look heavy and taxing to move around with, but the lightweight materials used give it a perfect balance between functionality and whimsical.
FERRAGAMO, Sleeveless Top with Leather Insert
The soft drapes and the leather insert create a contrast in not just colours but also texture.
JACQUEMUS, Le Petit Calino
An enlarged ring or a petite bag? The Le Petite Calino adds excitement to a look with its pony hair outer in red and the organically shaped ring handle.
ROKH, Double Panel Contrast Jacket
Featuring pockets and an inverted V hemline, this Rokh jacket finds an ideal balance between functionality and aesthetic.
GIVENCHY, Pearling Earrings in Metal with Pearls and Crystals
Nothing sounds more campy than putting a chandelier on, except we mean having this immaculate Givenchy earrings and not the Katy Perry’s dress.
JW ANDERSON, Hedgehog Clutch
With the advancement in 3D printing, this hedgehog-like clutch from JW Anderson injects quirks even for a monotonous look.
DRIES VAN NOTEN, 95mm Asymmetric Leather Sandals
There’s a thin line between artful and wearable when it comes to shoes and this pair from Dries Van Noten that features a slightly arched heel and asymmetrical cutout, allows the wearers to walk not just with poise but also comfort.
BURBERRY, Lapis Hollow Ring
The hollow cutout in this ring that is made out of lapis lazuli adds a note of whim to a look.