COTTE D'ARMES NYFW 2024

Bringing the Cotte D'Armes Spring 2025 collection to life was a truly collaborative and labor-intensive effort that spanned 4.5 months. This collection pushed the boundaries of what we traditionally produce, requiring us to work well outside our comfort zone. We designed and developed an extensive range of garments, from our staple items like jackets, outerwear, tops, bottoms, and one-pieces to more complex, specially designed pieces like custom-made bodysuits.

One of the most significant challenges we encountered was the development of these bodysuits. The intricate tailoring, high-performance materials, and perfect fit required precise attention to detail. To tackle these challenges, we invested in specialized machines typically used for bodysuits and yoga wear, and hired a bodysuit expert to work closely with our product development team. This step was crucial in ensuring that the bodysuits maintained the integrity of their design while meeting performance and comfort expectations. We also used the same bodysuit material to create matching shoes and gloves—items that presented their own set of challenges due to the precision and durability required for each piece.

Innovative Use of Petticoats and Detailed Construction

For the dresses in this collection, we incorporated petticoats to give them structure and volume, adding an additional layer of complexity to the construction. Petticoats need to be perfectly tailored and balanced to support the dresses without compromising their flow or movement on the runway. This required extensive pattern development and fittings to achieve the desired silhouette. Our team worked diligently to ensure that every dress, down to the smallest detail, was executed flawlessly.

Sustainability at the Core: Upcycling and Waste Reduction

In addition to the complexity of the designs, we were committed to maintaining our dedication to sustainability throughout the entire process. An impressive 85% of the materials used in this collection are upcycled. Our team meticulously sourced surplus materials, which we then dyed into a wide array of colors to suit the collection's aesthetic. However, using upcycled materials presents its own set of challenges—finding consistency in material quality and adapting each piece to work cohesively was a monumental task. We combined these materials in innovative ways, not only to achieve the desired look but also to minimize waste at every stage of production.

Product Development Challenges: A Balancing Act of Creativity and Execution

From a product development perspective, this collection demanded attention to the smallest details. For instance, aligning the digital prints on the suit pieces required careful redrawing to ensure that every part of the print seamlessly matched when the suit was buttoned and the pants were straightened. This level of precision added complexity but was essential to uphold the integrity of the design.

Additionally, the removable parts on the denim pieces and the delicate fabrics used for the dresses made the construction process particularly challenging. Every stitch and seam had to be reinforced while preserving the garment's aesthetic appeal. Ensuring that these unique design elements worked together cohesively was a massive undertaking that tested our technical skills and creative limits.

Our entire team worked persistently through countless iterations, balancing the visionary designs with the practicality of making them runway-ready. With the combination of expert tailoring, innovative techniques, and cutting-edge equipment, the result is a collection we are incredibly proud of—a demonstration of what can be achieved when creativity, craftsmanship, and sustainable practices come together.