The FALL WINTER 2024 collection by Pronounce, titled “Zhuangzi’s Butterfly,” is an exploration of reality and dreams, drawing inspiration from the ethereal butterfly dream of the ancient Taoist thinker Zhuangzi. This Chinese philosophical narrative explores the blurred lines between reality and illusion, as Zhuangzi wonders if he is a man dreaming of being a butterfly or a butterfly dreaming of being a man. The collection embodies this theme of infinite possibilities and transitions, blending the symbolism of butterflies, insect flight paths, ropes, lines, and threads with craftsmanship. Key elements include three-dimensional corduroy ropes that intertwine with the brand’s iconic oriental “Gourd Húlu bag,” a symbol of health in Mandarin Chinese culture.
The collection pays homage to Hu Die, also known as Butterfly Wu, an iconic Chinese actress from the 1920s and 1930s. Her name and legacy are the collection’s essence, representing ephemeral beauty and the unpredictable nature of life. This theme is further explored through an East-West dialogue in the collection, where traditional Chinese Cheongsam meets the Mao suit, and denim suits are juxtaposed with meticulous tailoring. The assortment includes knitwear, coats, denim suits, and pieces crafted from edge fabrics, hand-cut ropes, lightweight double-sided alpaca, silk mohair pullovers, silk alpaca fleece, white cotton twill, and coated merino wool. An ultra-light fleece work suit in silk and alpaca adds an avant-garde element, while Mongolian artisans contribute alpaca knitted hats, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern design.
Pronounce’s FALL WINTER 2024 collection is a complex interplay between objective reality and the uncertainty of dreams, reflecting a fusion of real-life interpretations and dreamlike images. The collection’s collaboration with UNDETECTED for handmade jewelry and AOKANG for shoes enhances its unique appeal. Additionally, the show unveils a preview of the PRONOUNCE X POP MART X THE MONSTERS capsule collection. Embracing the philosophical question of whether anything can be known with absolute certainty, the collection invites us to revel in the dreamlike ambiguity of existence.
