Novel Tectonics

AlphaTauri’s SS23 channels the serenity of an island escape

Sun, sand, sea – the promise of all three has been one of few things helping those of us in the UK to endure a winter that seems to have lasted years, not months. This longing for escape, more precisely to the environs of ‘a private island’, has been playfully channelled in AlphaTauri’s SS23 collection: “This private island could be anywhere – the blue skies envelop you and bathe you in sun, with a splash of vibrant summer colours and the transparency of clean, crystal water providing harmony. Clear skies are joined by a chorus of birds singing; the privacy of the island creates a sense of security and remote serenity…”

The fashion brand – founded in 2016 by Red Bull and named after the brightest star in the Taurus constellation – is regarded for its textile innovation and clean, contemporary detailing. Both are on full display, with a dash of seasonal flair, through its beach palette of pink, sky and navy blue, pebble greige, mango, as well as a tropical coral print that runs throughout, calling to mind Henri Matisse’s joyful collages and colour lithographs. Issue 32 celebrated the collection’s link between performance and lifestyle, as well as its complimentary poles of luxury and functionality, through urban exploration. Acclaimed photographer and director Benjamin Breading shot against textured backdrops of London for a cinematic atmosphere, emphasising the selected garment’s modernity.

Knitwear remains a vital and innovative part of its offering, with garments continuing to be created using an ingenious knitting machine designed by the Japanese company Shima Seiki. Essentially 3D printing individual pieces, the brand’s (literally) seamless process reduces fabric usage by up to 30%, meaning the production results in almost zero waste.

A spectrum of new yarns sit alongside its regulars of temperature-savvy Cashmax (55% cashmere, 45% Coolmax), bio-degradable Primaloft, traditional cashmere, and skin-friendly Tencel. Available in black, chalk aubergine and more, the assembled sweaters, hoodies, t-shirts, turtlenecks and jackets are all beautifully finished and woven with warmth and motion in mind.

Its in-house developed and patented Taurobran® – a fully breathable and waterproof 3-layer membrane – is also used again across its outerwear and mid-layers, such as its KOOV parka, summer blouson and a number of technical jumpers. The nano-engineered fabric that works with microscopic fibres lends both structure and softness to silhouettes.

This season, accessories using Apple Leather (a vegan alternative made from recuperated material) such as sleek wallets, pochettes, maxi and wash bags take centre stage, while beanies, caps and printed square scarfs lend a summery pop.

To celebrate the collection, as well as the recent launch of Port’s issue 32, readers can pick up a free copy at AlphaTauri’s flaghip London store on Brompton Road, Knightsbridge (while stocks last). An apt way to usher in spring, and finally, summer.