Campillo SS27 Embraces Joyful Nostalgia with Sunset Hues and Mexican Craftsmanship

Patricio Campillo's Spring/Summer 2027 collection, unveiled during New York Fashion Week on September 13, was a vibrant testament to "In Media Res," a Latin phrase signifying "in the midst of things." This thematic choice, as explained by designer Patricio Campillo in a preview event sponsored by Don Julio Tequila, was rooted in an outlook of "joy" and the cherished "beautiful moments" that evoke deep nostalgia. The collection's presentation at the East River heliport in Downtown Manhattan, a location chosen for its scenic riverside setting, nearly faced a dramatic interruption. A significant downpour hours before the show threatened to derail the outdoor event, but fortunately, the skies cleared, allowing for a picturesque golden-hour runway show bathed in the warm glow of the setting sun.

This season marked a distinct departure from Campillo's previous "Power and Restraint" collection, which explored more subdued color palettes and structured, tailored silhouettes. "In Media Res" embraced an exuberant and saturated sunset-inspired palette, featuring a spectrum of reds, oranges, yellows, and pinks. The silhouettes were predominantly relaxed and fluid, embodying an "in-the-moment" sensibility. Key pieces included effortlessly styled short shorts, lustrous satin shirting, deep-neck tank tops, and artfully distressed denim. Complementing these were new graphic tees that introduced a playful, subversive element through clashing logos and distorted wordmarks, offering a dynamic contrast to the more conventionally structured garments. The styling itself reinforced the collection's theme, with many garments intentionally worn twisted, tied, or layered in unconventional ways, mirroring the "in-process" and evolving nature suggested by "In Media Res."

A cornerstone of Campillo's design ethos, and a growing signature, is the celebration of Mexican craftsmanship and artisanal methods. This season, the designer drew inspiration from Charro horse-riding culture, a significant aspect of Mexican heritage. This influence was most strikingly manifested in the use of vibrantly dyed horsehair. The horsehair was meticulously colored in exuberant hues and incorporated as striking vertical fringe, adding a dynamic, textural dimension and a sense of movement to the garments. Further underscoring the collection's homage to Mexican heritage, traditional silver and onyx jewelry, often associated with Mexican artistry and craftsmanship, was prominently featured. The overall collection aimed to translate a feeling of immediate experience and joyful reflection into wearable art, celebrating the beauty found in the present moment and the enduring power of cherished memories.