Arthur Arbesser has recently unveiled his highly anticipated Fall 24 collection. This collection is not just a display of his creativity and talent. Still, it also holds a deeper, more personal meaning for Arbesser. In a recent interview, he revealed the inspiration and story behind this collection – his personal journey and experiences.
Arthur Arbesser's Personal Story
Last September, after many years, I met a wonderful Viennese lady again. Her name is Monika Kaesser, and from 1976 until 2000, she had the most beautiful shop in town. A box filled with gorgeous glasses, unique silverware, unusual custom jewelry, and the absolute best window displays. Everything oozed quality and exquisite taste. As a child, I studied Ms Kaesser’s windows rigorously.
Arthur Arbesser's Fall 24 collection
My parents were devoted fans, too – sometimes we went in, and they eventually bought a few glasses. It goes without saying that Ms Kaesser herself was, and still is, as chic as her shop.
Arthur Arbesser's Fall 24 collection featuring Monika Kaesser
After our recent meeting and my declaration of years of admiration, she invited me to her apartment. We spoke for hours about the ’70s and ’80s in Vienna, the start of the shop, relationships, the love of collecting, and lots more. That afternoon turned into an invigorating and inspiring treat.
I immediately felt like dedicating the upcoming collection to this legendary Viennese lady.
Shaping a Timeless Story
After enthusiastically sharing this story and insights with the studio, a new chapter in the “Arthur Arbesser book” started to take shape – one about the joy of beauty, elegance, sharing ideas, friendship, and humor. The aim was to make clothes that tell a story and don’t necessarily need to look like 2024 but rather feel timeless, with lots of grace, personality, and a touch of nostalgia.
Arthur Arbesser's Fall 24 collection featuring Monika Kaesser
Prints will always be our favorite way of conveying the meaning of each collection. For our Fall 24, there are four different leading players: a photographic print made of various glasses we gathered in the studio – some are market finds. In contrast, others are precious cut crystal glasses. Another graphic was created with the naive potato print technique, another one an abstract, energetic, and colorful painting, and finally, an aquarelle painted take on a classic checkerboard.
Arthur Arbesser's Fall 24 collection
We felt an urge for elegance and more dressy, formal shapes. Big rouches along the hemlines on voluminous taffeta skirts, dresses, and a trench in structured Japanese nylon give an extra touch of glamorous femininity.
Special graphic effects are created by layering printed tulle over printed fabric. Thick brushed mohair jacquard knits and shiny metallic quilted jackets give a touch of cozy winter wear. Stones, pearls, bits of glass, and metal were turned into earrings by the Milanese jewelry brand Balera.
Shooting this collection in Vienna was essential, and having Monika Kaesser as a model in front of Yannick Schütte’s camera made it even more special.
