Showtime

Shaggy, floor-sweeping, candy-coloured faux fur coats. A tuxedo suit with exaggerated proportions that's a nod to Marlene Dietrich. Bondage-inspired evening gowns. One would think that a collaboration fronted by a contemporary label would mean tempering down on the drama, but the Bimba Y Palomo collection, a tie-up between the fun-loving Bimba Y Lola and the red-carpet provocateur Palomo Spain, more than doubles down on it. Here, the latter's creative director Alejandro Gomez Palomo gives an exclusive interview on keeping the dream of dressing up alive.

- NOELLE LOH

If there’s someone who can be counted on to bring on the fantasy and drama in fashion, it’s Alejandro Gomez Palomo, the creative director of the LVMH Prize‑recognised Palomo Spain (it was a semi‑finalist for the award in 2022). Since founding his label Palomo Spain eight years ago, the Cordoba‑born, London College of Fashion‑trained designer has steadily risen as something of a new‑gen John Galliano with his flamboyant, gender‑fluid designs that are equally rich in historical references, glamour and subversiveness.

It’s a formula that earned the brand an invitation from the Council of Fashion Designers of America to join the New York Fashion Week calendar in 2017, and a guest designer spot for Jean Paul Gaultier four years after. Many of pop’s greatest showwomen – Madonna, Beyonce, Rosalia – have been clients, while partners for creative projects have ranged from Paris Opera to the Costume Institute at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York.

A collaboration with a contemporary – or accessible luxury – label might seem lacklustre in comparison, but Bimba Y Lola is anything but lacklustre. Started in 2005 by sisters Maria and Uxia Dominguez, the brand has garnered a following worldwide for its youthful print‑ and colour‑rich wardrobe staples and accessories. It’s also proudly from Spain, making it a kindred spirit to Palomo Spain, if you will.