Intentional—a word that’s powered Theory’s ethos for years, giving the design label its distinguishing aesthetic. Drawing inspiration from this focused approach, Theory Project by Lucas Ossendrijver Fall 2023 collection adds a dynamic and utilitarian twist to the common themes the brand has masterfully executed throughout its history.
As a veteran in the game, creating works for a number of storied fashion houses, Ossendrijver brings experience and experimentation to Theory Project’s latest collection. With a deep love for architecture, the Dutch-born, Paris-based designer blends technical features with fluid silhouettes to engineer a collection that exists at the nexus of casual and formal, masculine and feminine.
Finding a balance between function and fashionability, Ossendrijver’s Fall 2023 capsule includes key pieces that showcase luxurious appeal while subtly providing a level of quality performance rarely seen from such high-end fashion apparel.
Highlighting the collection, the capsule’s featured parka has a unique 3-in-1 design, which includes a reversible inner layer that snaps in and out, as seen on model Sidiki Touré. Pulling references from the quintessential opera coat silhouette, the dynamic piece is made to adapt to a range of occasions and conditions.
From a rainy day in the office to a casual evening dinner, the versatile parka combines individual garments that exist in relation to each other, working in conjunction to create something larger, just as Ossendrijver envisioned for each piece in the collection.
“You want every garment to be purposeful and have a clear intention in a capsule like this,” shares Ossendrjiver during a sit-down conversation with Highsnobiety. “Every piece should exist next to the other one. Each has to be different and yet complementary at the same time.”
Also included in the collection are a series of reversible bomber jackets made with a combination of recycled poly with a subtle sheen, brushed wool, and quilted crinkle twill. Showcased by models Idriys Ali-Chow and Rae Sada, the intentional matching employed on the jackets creates neo-sophisticated looks that oscillate between feminine and masculine while still speaking to the same design “language,” as Ossendrijver puts it.
“Technically speaking, these pieces are super sophisticated, from the fabrics to the construction,” says Ossendrjiver, “There’s a fluidity here. An exchange between what can be considered men’s and women’s clothes. Ultimately, it’s about the pieces themselves.”
The exploration extends to footwear, as we see the featured sneakers, pumps, boots, and loafers outfitted with rubberized soles that cater to the urban lifestyle, further blurring the lines between formal and informal.
Rounding out the collection are pieces infused with as much care and detail as the rest of the multifaceted line. From a sweater boasting a nylon-backed yoke to a two-tone silk georgette dress detailed with ruching to a pair of wool gabardine pants with adjustable waist tabs for a high or low-rise fit, Ossendrijver’s keen eye for the little things brings out Theory's brightest and most distinct qualities.
Available globally online this October, the Theory Project by Lucas Ossendrijver Fall 2023 collection embodies the understated craftsmanship and limitless possibilities synonymous with the classic New York brand.
Shop Theory Project by Lucas Ossendrijver Fall 2023 collection at theory.com.
