Ottolinger Spring/Summer 2025: A Bold Fusion of Minimalism and Empowerment on the Runway

One of the key themes of the collection was the idea of movement and fluidity. In the show notes, the Ottolinger woman was described as a "body in transit," dressed for both a party that just ended and a fresh start the next day. This idea of transition and reinvention reflected the design choices, from the flow of the garments to the layering and versatility of the accessories. There was a constant interplay between past, present, and future, with references to mythical figures like Calypso and imagery of a shark navigating between urban landscapes.

The standout pieces included long jersey dresses designed to shift seamlessly from daywear to eveningwear. These dresses were cleverly crafted with dual necklines, allowing the wearer to adjust how a shirt collar was styled—either traditionally or pushed forward for a more avant-garde look. A particular highlight was a red jersey dress that epitomized this concept of duality, balancing elegance with a rebellious edge. While previous collections from Ottolinger were known for intricate strapping and deconstruction, the SS25 collection leaned into a more pared-back aesthetic. Gadient acknowledged this shift, humorously commenting, “Sometimes, you have too many straps,” indicating the brand's desire for refinement this season​.

Accessories played a crucial role in the collection, from body-positive designs to crystal-studded sandals that added glamour. Leather jackets in "car crash" foil textures brought a tougher edge, while the reimagined handbags, dipped in tonal thermo-molded rubber and adorned with playful metal credit cards, celebrated financial empowerment and independence for women. This playful nod to modern femininity was further complemented by collaborations, such as with Shayne Oliver, who designed bikinis and glasses, and Shark Beauty, which added whimsical Barbie-inspired hairstyles​.