Ashley Graham [1] turned the sidewalks of New York City into photo-shoot territory this week as she posed to show off a denim illusion maxi dress. The design was created by Sergio Castaño Peña, whose label Syndical Chamber [2] utilises a trompe l'oeil effect to craft surrealist versions of the naked dress. The garments are fully developed and customised in Barcelona one by one to avoid mass production, taking each client's measurements and needs into consideration. Graham opted for a take on the indigo ripped denim look, which Cardi B wore to the Super Bowl [3] last year. While Graham's large chest cutout circles her cleavage, it appears the pattern shape can be modified any which way, to place cutouts elsewhere. Made from a resistant, adaptable, and stretchy mesh, the formfitting look feels luxe to the wearer — and isn't actually see-through.
Graham's stylist Emily Evans [4] sourced Jimmy Choo Jaxon sandals with metallic plating on the front strap to play up the edge. Graham balanced a grey coat on her shoulders, further accessorising with delicate earrings and her engagement ring. She parted her long brown hair at the centre, fashioned into loose mermaid waves, and finished her glam with a glossy pink lip and cat-eye. Graham's post [5] brought in compliments from Lana Condor, who commented "There she is!!!" and Jourdan Dunn, who posted three blue hearts.
Of course, this isn't the first groundbreaking outfit we've seen from the 35-year-old model this month, as she also sported a sparkling netted gown [6] with floor-sweeping sleeves by Alberta Ferretti to the 2023 Oscars, followed by an entirely sheer red number [7] over a lacy black bra and matching briefs to the Vanity Fair party, which she attended on the arm of her husband Justin Ervin [8].
Ahead, click through to learn more about the Syndical Chambers dressmaking process via Graham's pick from the site.
Syndical Chamber Denim Silk Dress
Syndical Chamber Denim Silk Dress [10] ($635)
Jimmy Choo Jaxon 95 Leather Sandals
Jimmy Choo Jaxon 95 Leather Sandals [11] ($875)