The sound of percussion rumbles closer and closer down the runway. The sound of jazz from the live jazz band, Hera, erupts. Following behind the instrumental is opening model Lauren Forge who danced and twirled down the runway. Marrisa Wilson’s titled Rhythemic Fall/Winter ’23 collection represents the cross sections of music, movement, comfort, and individuality. Ahead of the presentation, ESSENCE caught up with Wilson on the importance of those themes in her collection. “I used to be a dancer for many of my life, so I actually have a deep reference to music and movement. I feel concerning the creative means of crafting my collection as choreography. After I can hear the music, it helps me to visualise. It’s a celebration of expression,” she says.

Inspired by art and dance’s impact on Wilson’s life, this season’s hand-painted prints feature artisanal designs, evoking a way of rhythmic, musical energy. The presentation also showcased stylized illustrations in warm hues and contorted poses of every look above the model’s podium, deepening this tie between mediums. The 24-look collection includes a variety of comfortable silhouettes and fabrics, each designed with movement and liveability in mind. The ready-to-wear collection pooled around stand-out colours lime green and coral orange up against neutrals or in a mix inside whimsical prints. The looks were easy-going and playful, mixing textures and prints in a visually refreshing way. This unfussy styling was complimented with coordinating accessories reminiscent of hats, headbands, scarves, Goshwara jewelry, Commando hosiery, and Beautiisoles footwear.

Wilson emphasized that she wanted this collection to feel like wearable art. “I don’t want the wearer to feel just like the pieces are too precious to be lived in. I would like them to feel like art while with the ability to live in these pieces,” Wilson states. The music and art impression transcends past just the gathering. The story behind the hair and makeup is impactful in telling Wilson’s story. It was essential to Wilson that appears were intentional and enhanced the fantastic thing about the various canvasing of models. The models were prepped using Dieux skincare and glammed with Kevyn Aucoin makeup and Oribe hair products. The thoughtfully curated look featured a heavy daring red blush across the eyes and hair that might be described as architectural.

In closing, special guest and serving muse Pat Cleveland strutted down the runway hand in hand with Wilson through the curtain call. The icon wore a two-toned sweater turtleneck, a tiered tweed skirt, and red boots. The runway and print model was considered one of the primary African American models to reach the 60s and 70s. She also studied under Katherine Dunham, one other muse for the Marrisa Wilson collection. Wilson stated that she spent an important deal of time studying Katherine Dunham’s old videos during ideation while on the lookout for fabrics and textures to include. So having Pat Cleveland as an element of the presentation was a momentous moment for Wilson and the brand.

Ahead, explore the gathering.