NYFW AW25: Caroline Zimbalist

Image: Jasmine Mckell (@jasminemckellphotography)

Caroline Zimbalist's AW25 collection was centred around a significant evolution in her exploration of bioplastics, transitioning from purely artistic expressions to wearable, multi-dimensional designs. This season, she masterfully blends bioplastic sculptures with traditional textiles, creating pieces that delightfully blur the lines between clothing, accessories, and art.

Building upon her pre-existing work with these curious materials, Zimbalist introduces moulded bioplastic elements layered over standard garments, accenting functionality with glorious bursts of form and fun. This technique not only adds depth and dimension to her designs but also highlights the interplay between her original prints and the contrasting surfaces and textures of the materials used.

Image: Jasmine Mckell (@jasminemckellphotography)

The collection features whimsical illustrations printed on conventional fabrics, reflecting Zimbalist's imaginative perspective on our evolving natural world. These prints are then overlaid with vibrant bioplastic components, resulting in a wonderful convergence of traditional and futuristic aesthetics. The introduction of denim and jacquard in jackets and pants provides a grounded contrast to her signature bio-tops, making the avant-garde elements more accessible for everyday wear.

Zimbalist's work aims to redefine the perception of bioplastics in the industry, positioning them not merely as sustainable alternatives to tick that “we care about the environment” box, but as materials of beauty and innovation. Her vision is to lead the fashion industry toward embracing bioplastics as sophisticated, desirable textiles, thereby integrating them into the future of mainstream design.

Image: Jasmine Mckell (@jasminemckellphotography)

In addition to garments, the collection showcases a line of sculpted accessories, including bioplastic buttons and collaborations on bioplastic shoes and rings. Through her work, Zimbalist challenges how we think about the materials we wear, pointing toward a future where fashion aligns with the natural world.

Caroline Zimbalist's AW25 collection is a rallying cry, shouting from the rooftops to the industry about the limitless potential of biomaterials to be both artful and functional, bringing us one step closer to a more sustainable, nature-inspired future in fashion.

Image: Jasmine Mckell (@jasminemckellphotography)