Christopher Kane, for Self-Portrait’s Residency program, unveiled his highly anticipated collection during a live shoot in London last Thursday. The event, hosted by Self-Portrait’s founder and Creative Director Han Chong, was an immersive experience where guests witnessed the creative process firsthand. Models Achol Ayor, Colin Jones, and Hannah Motler were photographed by Larissa Hofmann, capturing the essence of the collection in the first images of the series.
The evening brought together 100 guests for an intimate dinner where they became part of the live shoot environment. Earlier that week, Kane’s longtime collaborator Carine Roitfeld teased the collection in a campaign photographed in her Parisian home, adding a layer of elegance and nostalgia to the launch.
Redefining Collaboration with Self-Portrait Residency
Han Chong conceived the Self-Portrait Residency as a platform to foster meaningful collaboration between creatives. Reflecting on the launch, Chong shared, “I wanted to find a new way to reveal this collection, in keeping with the spirit and ethos of why we started our Residency programme – something modern, unexpected and which celebrates togetherness. Recently collaborations have felt transactional, so with self-portrait Residency, I wanted to create something that feels alive, connected, and reflective of the creative energy of today. Guests were able to explore and be part of the creative process, experiencing the collection in real-time, and will see the results come to life in this series of images. I hope these portraits capture our collective ambition for what we hope will be an inspiring ongoing new way to collaborate.”
Rejecting the transactional nature of traditional collaborations, the Residency program invites artists across disciplines to create pieces that reflect individuality while remaining connected to Self-Portrait’s vision. The live shoot gave guests a glimpse into the collection’s creation, paving the way for the portraits to be revealed in the weeks ahead.
A Collection Rooted in Elegance and Subversion
Christopher Kane’s collection for Self-Portrait Residency draws from his extensive archives, reimagining elements of his iconic debut Spring/Summer 2007 collection. This new range combines his signature subversive elegance with modern craftsmanship. Highlights include crystal chainmail pieces, delicate lace ruffles, bias-cut satin dresses, and knitwear with lace cut-outs.
The vibrant palette is complemented by crystal-embellished mini dresses, rhinestone bolstered necklaces, and handbags with ruffled lace handles, each piece reflecting Kane’s ability to merge the avant-garde with wearability. The collection exudes a refined yet daring aesthetic, staying true to Kane’s reputation for pushing boundaries.
A Platform for Artistic Experimentation
Self-Portrait Residency, launched by Chong in 2024, aims to provide artists with a collaborative space to innovate and explore new ideas. Located at Harella House, Self-Portrait’s London headquarters, the program offers infrastructure, resources, and networks to support the creative process. The Residency welcomes designers and artists from various disciplines, fostering a culture of experimentation while maintaining the brand’s commitment to accessible, high-quality design.
Christopher Kane’s involvement as the Resident designer reflects the program’s core vision. By giving Kane the freedom to revisit his archives and reinterpret them through Self-Portrait’s lens, the collaboration offers a fresh perspective on both his work and the brand’s ethos.
A Broader Vision for Fashion
The Residency collection is now available at self-portrait.com, Self-Portrait stores in London, and select global retailers, including Harvey Nichols, Selfridges, and Bloomingdale’s. With prices ranging from £30 for lace socks to £700 for intricate satin dresses, the collection reflects Self-Portrait’s commitment to offering exceptional design at accessible price points.
This initiative marks a new chapter for Self-Portrait, blending its contemporary occasion wear expertise with the creative energy of external talents. As the Residency evolves, it promises to redefine collaboration in the fashion industry, creating a space where individuality and collective ambition thrive.
Discover products from the collection in our gallery:
i don’t like ruffles but why are they so cute here! Love love love this. Bravo Christopher Kane and Self Portrait team !