Alice + Olivia Spring Summer 2025 “Hotel of Imagination” New York Runway. Story by RUNWAY MAGAZINE. Photo Courtesy: Alice + Olivia / Lily & Lilac.
Alice + Olivia’s Spring Summer 2025 collection is a dazzling testament to Stacey Bendet’s ability to meld whimsy with sophistication. Known for her playful yet polished aesthetic, Bendet has once again redefined contemporary fashion by presenting a collection that takes viewers on a journey through a fantastical world—the “Hotel of Imagination.” This inventive concept envisions a luxurious, dream-like hotel, where each room reflects a different facet of the collection, filled with lush textures, vibrant prints, and unexpected silhouettes.
At the heart of this collection are the larger-than-life elements that captivate the senses. Big bows, 3D floral prints reminiscent of delicate porcelain, and bold, oversized polka dots dominate the runway, creating a visual feast that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly modern. The color palette is an exploration of contrasts, ranging from soft pastels to vivid blues, echoing the mood of a garden party that’s both chic and slightly surreal.
The influence of porcelain is particularly striking, with blue floral prints that seem almost sculptural in their execution. These prints add a touch of vintage charm, evoking the elegance of fine china while feeling undeniably contemporary. This intricate detailing extends to Bendet’s signature embellishments—hand-beaded florals that appear to bloom directly from the fabric, adding a tactile, almost living quality to the garments.
Bendet’s thoughtful approach to design is evident throughout the collection, especially in her attention to the engineering of each piece. Known for her relentless pursuit of the perfect fit, Bendet expands on her original mission this season with the New Olivia pant, a wide-legged style that combines comfort with a flattering silhouette. But it’s not just about fit; Bendet’s designs are layered with clever, transformative elements. From hidden boning in corsets that enhance the bust to removable tiers on dresses that transition from day to night, the collection offers versatility that feels both considered and creative.
One standout is the tiered corset dress adorned with moiré polka dots, paired with a floor-sweeping velvet burnout cape—an ensemble that manages to be both opulent and playful. The juxtaposition of candy-colored rugby stripes and butter-yellow drop-waist maxis adds to the collection’s narrative, weaving a story of a woman who is at once youthful, daring, and sophisticated.
Bendet’s “Hotel of Imagination” is more than a metaphor; it’s a carefully constructed world where each room houses a different persona, each garment telling a distinct story. There’s a sense that Bendet has designed each look with a particular woman in mind—a traveler who flits between rooms, embodying a new character with every change of clothes. This approach speaks to Bendet’s knack for creating not just fashion, but an experience. It’s this very concept that makes the collection feel cohesive despite its eclectic mix of themes and motifs.
However, as much as the collection celebrates extravagance, there are moments where practicality and polish clash. Some pieces, while beautifully embellished, are offset by downmarket finishes, such as exposed zippers and elasticated back panels. These elements, though functional, feel somewhat at odds with the opulence of the designs, suggesting a disconnect between vision and execution. At this price point, consumers expect a more seamless fusion of form and finish—a minor but noticeable detour in an otherwise enchanting journey.
Alice + Olivia’s Spring Summer 2025 collection is a celebration of fashion’s ability to transport us to another world. Through her “Hotel of Imagination,” Stacey Bendet invites us to indulge in fantasy without sacrificing elegance, offering pieces that are as versatile as they are visionary. While there are areas where refinement could further elevate the collection, the overall effect is one of awe and admiration. In a season defined by escapism and enchantment, Bendet’s whimsical yet thoughtful designs stand out as a beautiful reminder that fashion, at its best, is an art form that knows no bounds.
See All Looks Alice + Olivia Spring Summer 2025
