With an all-Brazilian lineup of models and a breathtaking backdrop, the American fashion house, Carolina Herrera, showcased its first-ever fashion show outside of New York in Rio de Janeiro on Thursday. The collection was a celebration of the city's pulsating energy and the unbridled joy that characterises its residents.

Despite the persistent rain attempting to dampen the spirits, the fashion show went on. However, the event took place without a live audience. Attendees, including prominent figures from Rio and across Brazil, sought shelter to avoid getting wet and ensure their safety.

The downpour that occurred before the presentation flooded a significant part of the stage, and a couple of models even experienced minor slips on the runway. The fashion show was held outdoors at an exclusive hotel in Santa Teresa, a picturesque neighbourhood in the city centre.

Rio was chosen as the inaugural city outside of New York to host a fashion show by Carolina Herrera due to its vibrant energy, inherent optimism, and contagious "joie de vivre." However, this decision also reflects the brand's strategic focus on expanding its presence in the Latin American market.

The brand founded by Venezuelan designer Carolina Herrera and now creatively led by Wes Gordon, fully embraced the enchanting allure and vibrant colours of the Carioca tropics in its latest collection. The resort 2024 collection featured lively pieces, such as oversized blouses transformed into wrap skirts.

The runway showcased an array of designs, with polka dots taking center stage in shirts inspired by menswear and dresses of varying lengths suitable for both gala events and cocktail parties. The garments, adorned in shades of green, red, and black, exuded a comfortable yet chic aesthetic, further complemented by the addition of wide-brimmed hats.

According to the brand, the collection blurred the boundaries between casual and elegant, seamlessly transitioning from day to night, making each piece suitable for any occasion.

For the evening looks, the collection boasted amplified volume, with precisely tailored pieces that breathed life into layers of tulle and lightweight fabrics, showcased in both mini and maxi styles.

One standout piece was a show-stopping rainbow ruffled skirt embellished with sequins, while a mini dress in captivating hues of lake blue, kiwi green, and papaya orange captured attention with its contemporary cut.

Throughout the collection, delicate orchid motifs emerged in exquisite embroidery and ethereal watercolour prints on organza.

During the show, Gordon paid a special tribute to the iconic Brazilian artist Roberto Burle Marx. A two-piece suit crafted from meticulously hand-cut layers of tulle, featuring undulating white and black waves reminiscent of the renowned Copacabana promenade envisioned by the esteemed Brazilian landscape architect, elegantly graced the runway.