Mallorie Dunn has been on a serious mission! On the heels of launching her Plus Size Pattern making course, conducting an in-depth size research project, Mallorie Dunn, the founder of SmartGlamour has also been working on a special project with an event this Friday!
SmartGlamour’s new couture collection is set to make waves on November 1, 2024, in NYC, where designer Mallorie Dunn will showcase her capsule collection of ten size-inclusive evening gowns. This event not only marks her exciting step into couture for SmartGlamour but also brings a bit of excitement for inclusive fashion.
From thoughtful inspirations to intricate craftsmanship, Mallorie’s vision stands as a resounding call to allow everyone—regardless of size—to participate in the art and luxury of high-end fashion.
Mallorie Dunn’s vision for this collection centers around who is “allowed” into the space of “gallery-worthy” dresses. Her commitment to reshaping the fashion world and her attention to detail set the tone for an intimate yet powerful experience. “I am hoping this presentation and work will shine a light on who is allowed or not allowed to participate in high-end, gallery-worthy garments and fashion conversations,” Dunn says. And she’s put her heart and soul into making this collection just as extraordinary as the statement itself, designing each piece slowly over the course of a year to ensure every detail would dazzle and demand attention.
Behind the SmartGlamour Couture Collection
Mallorie’s use of flowers as her primary inspiration brings a softness and romanticism that contrasts beautifully with the bold statements of inclusion and defiance that underlie the collection. She’s taken her love for flowers, an inspiration she truly enjoys, and woven it into garments that feel as poetic as they do empowering.
Through the oversized peonies, delicate embroideries, and rich silks, Mallorie invites wearers to embrace their own style and strength while celebrating their individuality.
Among the collection’s creations, one of Mallorie’s favorite pieces is the red ball gown, “Expanse,” which celebrates unapologetic presence. Adorned with a gigantic, true-to-proportion peony flower, this gown is nothing short of breathtaking.
With over 50 individually handmade petals and a generous, oversized sash, Expanse isn’t just a dress—it’s a statement on taking up space and questioning the narrow beauty standards that have dictated couture for too long. Tucked inside the bodice, a hidden embroidered message awaits the wearer, creating a personal connection between the garment and its wearer.
Then there’s the ethereal navy silk charmeuse dress, “The Sisters,” a tribute to Mallorie’s own family, which features a unique custom embroidery celebrating the birth flowers of her and her sisters—Lily of the Valley, Cosmos, and Sweet Pea. The addition of Gladiolus, representing strength of character, brings the whole design together with a sense of powerful, feminine grace.
The embroidery process itself is an art form; Mallorie’s hand-drawn florals were transferred to dissolvable fabric and machine “drawn” in lurex embroidery thread before the backing was dissolved, leaving only the floral design. The result? A delicate, organic embroidery that adds movement and sentimentality to the dress, honoring the designer’s roots and her journey in fashion.
In an era of ultra-fast fashion and digital filters, Dunn’s choice of inspiration for the photography for this collection was “classic 1940s-50s fashion photography. Reimagining them with inclusive, modern models,” Dunn shares with us.
A huge part of making this vision come to life is thanks to SmartGlamour’s partnership with PeerSpace through the “Space for Change” initiative. Winning this opportunity allowed Mallorie to secure unique NYC venues for both the photoshoot and the upcoming show, spaces that perfectly complement the elegance and thoughtful artistry of her collection. These locations provide a fitting backdrop for pieces that are more than just couture—they’re wearable art pieces that challenge the exclusionary norms of the fashion industry.
In NYC and want to attend SmartGlamour: Couture for Everybody Event?
Here are the event details:
Date: November 1st, 2024
Time: 7-9pm
Location: 545 8th Avenue Suite 1410 New York, NY 10018
Cost: Free
Learn More and Get your tickets to this free event at Eventbrite.com!
In the end, SmartGlamour’s first foray into couture is more than a fashion show—it’s her love letter to inclusive fashion, a challenge to tradition, and a breathtaking example of what happens when couture is crafted with care, passion, and purpose.
Join SmartGlamour on November 1st, 2024 to witness a fashion moment that promises to be as powerful as it is beautiful.
