Nothing gives me more reason to dress up than when I have the best opportunity to show off. It’s a no-brainer when I think of party attire and the companies I use whenever I have. Ever since I put my first Retrofête outfit on, I have been in passion. Being a New York–based business, it has always had its hand on the signal of what It women want to be wearing, taking a “more is more” approach to gathering dressing. It’s safe to say Retrofête is not for the bookworm. After seeing Retrofête’s latest runway show this past fashion week, I was even more obsessed than usual and knew I needed to tap the mastermind behind the set ——for more on this set, the party dressing developments he loves, tips for after- group looks, and more.
Continue reading to read my conversation with Seroya and sample some of the styles he’s recommending for 2024’s party attire.
What was the motivation behind your fall/winter 2024 set?
My most recent set centers on the beta girl, a professional working woman by day and a seductive party woman by night. After dark, her expertly tailored tailoring turns into snake draped gowns. From my early childhood to the present moment, I was very much inspired by all the important people in my life, starting with my mother, Fall’s biggest muse, who worked three work and dressed confidently every day. Next may be my girls, who I am always the first to help design for a day out, followed by my workers, the majority of whom are people who embody a strong sexuality.
I even pull a lot of ideas from 80s symbols. Think Showgirls, Basic Instinct, Wall Street, and Pretty Woman—headlined by images like Julia Roberts, Sharon Stone, Alicia Silverstone, Elizabeth Berkley, and Michelle Pfeiffer. For this series, I channeled a classic splendor that carries from day to day, business to cocktail club. She has the company work and the remarkable social life we all crave, and she does it all.
When you’re designing parts for Retrofête and Ser. o. ya, who are you designing for?
I’ve often said Retrofête is made for those courageous to stand out. When she slips into our garments, we know she will think empowered. She put up her dress with purpose, creating the ideal aesthetic from head to toe. When she walks into the room, all wants to know what she’s wearing—she’s not afraid to get hot and strong. Como. o. ya is crafted more for the present simple. With a really smooth visual, the Sir. o. ya lady is laid-back, everyday, and yet sophisticated and put-together. She curates her outfit with ease and is in tune with the newest developments.
When she walks into the room, all wants to know what she’s wearing—she’s not afraid to get hot and strong.
( Image credit: Sonny Vandevelde )
Which of your most recent items represent your heroes?
The short-sleeved pinstripe suit is a design that stands out from the slide 2024 collection. It’s a fresh take on a well-known image that makes an experiment with femininity and sizes. One of my favorite outfits, the four-piece suit, features a personalized blazer underneath a matching floor-length overcoat. It’s energy befitting at its finest. Boots and handbags match each look in the collection—cut in velvet, croc, and patent- set fabrications.
After-party appearance is occasionally attract more attention than dark floor looks themselves. What words of wisdom do you offer anyone who wants a killer after-party appearance?
Your last chance to party like a pro. Make it a little or settle for sequins—the options are endless. While red carpets and award ceremonies are getting more refined, the after-party is where you can push the boundaries. Openings may be higher. Trainers can be more sensual. Fabrics are large, and patterns are bold. It’s not just about the clothing but]also] how you design it. By picking out the handbag, the stockings, the jewellery, and the coat, you are able to customize each appearance.
How would you advise arranging your outfits?
I think the beauty of Retrofête is that there are unlimited design possibilities. With the growth of our clothing and supplement categories, you can now store for everything you need to finish your look in one place. Every single detail is taken into account when my team and I pattern each year. Each colour and picture in the selection has a related theme. We are aware of how many clothes are required, how numerous occasions to offer, and how many weaves will complete our collection. Every aspect of the search is extremely curated from nose to toe—with Retrofête trainers as the finishing touch, of course. We make sure that each piece finds its strongest complement by carefully merchandising to preserve styling simple for you.
( Image credit: Sonny Vandevelde )
What night out and gathering attire do you think we will be seeing a lot of in 2024?
Twenty Twenty Twenty-four is currently shaping up to be a very popular time for nighttime attire. Rhinestones are a long staple, especially for Retrofête, but we are finding innovative ways to recreate them with each year. We introduce crystals into conventional workwear silhouettes through large- glow embellishments and fabrications, which double as a night-out look. We’re starting to see a shift toward more advanced party attire. For instance, the midi clothing is becoming the fresh minidress. This image is ultra-flattering and processed because people are looking for something new.
Leather will also be great this year, and at Retrofête, we’re experimenting with it in all aspects. Whether it be trademark, croc embossed, or sudden colorways, the construction is often luxurious and edgy.