Known for her “aggressively delicate” aesthetic, Puerto Rican designer and artist Elena Velez hosted more than the average presentation this NYFW season — opting instead for thoughtful discourse in the form of a hyper-stylised salon and ball.

Titled EV SALON 001: TOMORROW IS ANOTHER DAY, the collection took a closer look at what Velez defines as “bygone American woman — one whose grit, intrepidness, and recalcitrance lead her inexorably toward dream or disaster.” Unveiled amidst an opera performance, the Scarlett O’Hara-inspired looks played with corsetry, layering, and high-low contrasts. Pairing expensive silks with cheap curtains, Velez crafted a capsule as dynamic as its setting. Following the presentation, Jack Mason and Anna Khachiyan gave a symposium on Margaret Mitchel’s Gone With The Wind, with Julia Fox in attendance.

Velez shared the following statement ahead of the event: “1. Fashion can not and should not be made without input and engagement from a relevant and interdisciplinary subcultural source. 2. There must be a human-centric approach to the breakdown of silos within the American cultural industry. 3. It’s the job of a designer to create opportunities for fashion to be considered in more meaningful and sophisticated ways.”

Probing at social hierarchy and socioeconomics, Velez’ work continues to have a distinctly cutting and inquisitive presence —- focused on creating meaningful commentaries beyond the clothing itself. As always, the EV brand brings a refreshingly candid and unconventional perspective to the monotony of the fashion industry and its often tired expectations.

Take a look at the collection with photography by Jason Renaud…