Photo credit: www.vogue.com
Cynthia Merhej’s Fall 2025 Collection: A Journey of Transformation and Duality
In her fall 2025 collection, designer Cynthia Merhej has embraced a new direction for her brand, Renaissance Renaissance, prompted by recent political changes in Lebanon and the renewal of hope within her community. Following a ceasefire last November, Merhej feels a sense of optimism that has allowed her to envision the future with greater clarity. “There’s finally political change, which gives me a beautiful perspective,” she shared during a visit to her showroom. “The mood in Beirut is different now: people are going out again, and there’s a sense of positivity in the air. It feels lighter, more playful.”
With the alleviation of survival pressures, Merhej has been able to redirect her focus to her personal life and artistic expression. After years devoted to her business, she recognized the importance of living authentically, a theme that now emerges prominently in her work. Identity takes center stage as she prepares to showcase her latest creations at the LVMH Prize showroom in Paris, alongside fellow semi-finalists. Her fall collection embodies this personal evolution, merging sophisticated styles reminiscent of icons like Jackie Kennedy and Audrey Hepburn with an exploration of a more adventurous, free-spirited persona.
This duality is not merely thematic; it is intricately woven into the collection’s design. The designer imagines a scenario where these two contrasting identities collide, leading to the realization that they coexist within the same individual. “It’s about embracing duality rather than compartmentalizing,” Merhej explained. “That philosophy—balancing extremes and finding harmony—has always been at the core of my brand.”
The fall collection showcases this concept through striking contrasts, both literal and artistic. Asymmetrical jackets and coats play with traditional forms, while pussycat blouses come with hidden strings, allowing wearers to decide between revealing or concealing, depending on the mood and occasion. A black leather pencil skirt features a gathered hem that can be worn in multiple ways, and a shiny polka-dot blouse has the versatility to transform into an eye-catching party dress.
Merhej’s innovative approach to fabrics further highlights her exploration of duality. A party dress from her 2018 collection is reimagined here with white cotton layered beneath black tulle, juxtaposed with “tacky party sequins” delicately tucked in between. Even humble fabric linings are treated with the same craftsmanship as luxurious materials like Piacenza wool. Efforts to create light and voluminous silhouettes in shiny silver techno fabric emphasize freedom and movement; these pieces are designed to dazzle on a crowded dance floor.
“It’s all about transformation, about stepping into the fullness of who you are,” Merhej reflected. With her latest collection, Renaissance Renaissance presents a renewed sense of polish and refinement, encapsulating her personal and artistic journey in a celebration of identity and duality.
Source
www.vogue.com