Naomi Campbell Unveils Daring ‘PrettyLittleThing’ Collaboration at Early NYC Show

Naomi Campbell, the renowned supermodel and fashion icon, surprised attendees with her punctuality at a recent New York City event where she unveiled her collaboration with the fast-fashion brand PrettyLittleThing. This fashion spectacle took place just days before the official start of New York Fashion Week’s Spring-Summer 2024 show calendar, albeit with a slight delay.

Campbell, who is often associated with the term “fashionably late,” walked the runway herself, showcasing the final look of the collection. She wore a strikingly sheer black halter neck maxi dress adorned with intricate crystal detailing. While the PrettyLittleThing website describes this ensemble as “heart-racing,” Campbell effortlessly elevated it to a level of understated elegance.

Transparency took centre stage in the collection, with sheer fabrics featured prominently in various looks. These transparent elements were either layered over criss-cross halter neck tops or boldly embraced in body-baring designs. This trend reflects the growing enthusiasm among designers and consumers for see-through fabrics.

Described by Chris Parnell, head of design at PrettyLittleThing, as the brand’s “most significant collaboration,” the runway show presented over 40 looks tailored to the party season. The collection embraced a broad spectrum of high-glam separates designed to appeal to a wide audience, following the ethos of fast fashion. It encompassed tailored jumpsuits, blazers, flowy bias-draped gowns, and body-hugging cocktail dresses. While black and white dominated the colour palette, pops of vibrant hues like hot pink, yellow, purple, and mauve, along with metallics in chainmail, sequins, crystals, and beading, added a dynamic touch. The collection was also notable for its inclusion of curve and plus-size models, with sizes ranging from 0 to 26.

Despite occasional deviations from Campbell’s signature style, the collection consistently reflected her discerning taste. In her role as a designer, Campbell was actively involved in the design process, unafraid to express her opinions and request revisions when necessary. Notably, one iteration of the collection was completely overhauled to meet her standards.

In a testament to her commitment to nurturing emerging talent, Campbell incorporated two ensembles created by emerging designers, Victor Anate and Edvin Thompson, into the collection. She emphasized the importance of providing opportunities for the next generation of creatives through her platform.

The front row of the event boasted a diverse array of famous faces, including models Winnie Harlow, Alton Mason, Emily Ratajkowski, and Halima Aden. Actors, musicians, and creatives such as Tommy Dorfman, Teyana Taylor, Vashtie Kola, and Julia Fox also graced the event, with Fox donning the most daring outfit of the night—a barely-there chain bikini layered beneath a black leather trench coat.

Despite some criticism surrounding her collaboration with a fast-fashion brand, Campbell remains committed to using her influence to shine a spotlight on emerging designers and support their creative journeys.