Collaboration reimagines past collections

Acne Studios has launched a 12-piece capsule collection in partnership with designer Hussein Chalayan, reinterpreting three of his foundational collections from the early 2000s: Ventriloquy (2001), Medea (2002), and Manifest Destiny (2003). The collection draws on archival designs and reworks them using Acne Studios’ signature materials, such as denim, jersey, and leather.

New designs blend past and present

The capsule features a range of pieces, including patchwork denim jeans, shirts with contrasting panels, asymmetrical dresses, crop tops, and a new version of the Camero bag made from patchwork leather and denim patches. It also includes Acne Studios’ iconic jeans from 1996 and 2009, alongside designs inspired by the layered constructions of Chalayan’s Manifest Destiny collection.

Collection ties to upcoming fashion show

The collaboration is linked to Acne Studios’ spring-summer 2027 show, titled Denim Hystoria, which combines denim with the romantic silhouettes of British New Romantics and references to the rococo era. One standout piece is a pair of twisted denim jeans featuring an optical illusion python print.

Campaign highlights historical context

The campaign photographs were shot at the V&A East Storehouse in London, where the new designs are displayed alongside historical garments from Chalayan’s personal collection. These include his 2011 Tulle Dress and the Haiku Dress from his Sakoko spring-summer 2011 collection.

Book explores Chalayan’s influence

Acne Studios has also released a limited-edition book titled Reference: Hussein Chalayan, published in 1000 copies. The book, editorially directed by curator and editor Charlene Prempeh, includes archives, photographs, and texts that explore Chalayan’s lasting impact on fashion and design. An Azerbaijani carpet by Faig Ahmed, known for transforming traditional carpets into sculptural works, was displayed alongside the mannequins in the campaign.

Collection and book available globally

The capsule collection is available for purchase online and in select international stores, including the Acne Studios boutique on Rue Saint-Honoré in Paris. The book will also be available online and through a selection of stores and partners.