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My issue with The Row is that it’s simply a perfect recipe taken from the great designers of the ’90s.
The brand doesn’t bring anything new—whether in terms of design, visual direction, or otherwise. I find it devoid of any truly distinct point of view, which bothers me even more considering who are behind the brand.
The Olsen sisters, in my opinion, are some of the most stylish and fashion-literate individuals. Their influence throughout their careers is nearly unmatched, and their understanding of fashion and style goes far beyond The Row. MKA, who is the creative force behind the brand, has an incredible eye for mix-and-match styling, layering, and accessorizing—elements that are completely absent from The Row.
I find it incredibly frustrating how much they distance themselves from their own perspective in favor of others’. Why set aside their own vision to adopt someone else’s? After Yohji, Jil, and Margiela, who will be next? Anne-Marie Beretta?
Choosing to align with quiet luxury, minimalism, or hyper-luxury—whatever name you give it—is one thing, but considering their background, their personal and professional fashion experiences, the collections should be stronger, fresher, and more interesting.
For me, their collections from 2012 to 2015 were far more compelling than this one.
So yes, it’s sublime, yes, the quality is impeccable, yes, everything is perfectly executed—but no, it doesn’t stay in my mind. Because when you take from what others have already done, I tend to remember the pioneers, not the imitators.