Genaro Rivas SS25 A Daring Fusion of Tradition and Avant-Garde at LFW

Peruvian designer Genaro Rivas delivered a standout performance at London Fashion Week SS25, showcasing his deeply personal and daring vision for the future of fashion. Known for blending heritage with modernity, Rivas once again captured the audience with a collection that fused the richness of Peruvian craftsmanship with a cutting-edge, avant-garde aesthetic.

From the moment the first model stepped onto the runway, it was clear that Rivas was not afraid to push boundaries. The opening look, a bold fusion of geometric patterns and indigenous textiles, immediately set the tone for the collection: a celebration of Peruvian culture reinterpreted for the global stage. The designer's meticulous attention to detail was evident in every stitch, with vibrant colors and intricate weaves that honored traditional Andean techniques while feeling fresh and modern.

Rivas' use of fabric was particularly striking. He worked with native Peruvian materials like alpaca wool and pima cotton, elevating them with unexpected textures and experimental silhouettes. One standout piece featured a flowing, asymmetrical gown crafted from woven alpaca fibers, paired with sharp, angular shoulders—a juxtaposition that embodied the tension between past and future that runs through his work. The fluidity of the materials was balanced by structured tailoring, creating a harmonious dialogue between soft and hard elements.

The color palette of the SS25 collection was both daring and thoughtful, combining deep earthy tones with flashes of electric blues, vivid reds, and metallic accents. The interplay between these colors gave the collection an energy and dynamism that felt both rooted in tradition and unmistakably forward-looking. It was as if Rivas was using color to convey a narrative of cultural pride and global innovation, merging his Peruvian heritage with the avant-garde influences of London’s fashion scene.

One of the key highlights of the show was the way Rivas incorporated traditional Peruvian motifs into his designs without veering into cliché. His nods to Incan symbolism were subtle, woven into the fabric rather than emblazoned across it. The craftsmanship behind each garment was a testament to his skill as a designer committed to authenticity, with every piece carrying the weight of its cultural significance while remaining wearable and contemporary.

Accessories also played a prominent role in the collection. Models strutted down the runway with oversized, sculptural jewelry and dramatic, wide-brimmed hats—a clear homage to Peruvian folk traditions, but with a modern twist. The juxtaposition of these oversized, bold accessories with the sleek lines of the clothing created a striking visual contrast that left a lasting impression.

Genaro Rivas also made a powerful statement about sustainability, a theme increasingly present in high fashion. His commitment to ethical production practices was reflected not only in his choice of eco-friendly materials but also in his approach to slow fashion—designing timeless pieces meant to be cherished and passed down rather than discarded after a season.

The show concluded with a dramatic final look: a flowing black cape adorned with gold accents, a stunning representation of Rivas’ mastery of blending tradition with innovation. It was a fitting end to a collection that felt both monumental and intimate, personal and universal.

In a season marked by bold experimentation, Genaro Rivas’ SS25 collection stood out for its ability to seamlessly integrate cultural heritage with high fashion’s avant-garde edge. His designs told a story of pride, resilience, and innovation, securing his place as a designer with a global voice and a unique vision. London Fashion Week has seen many highlights, but Rivas’ ability to transcend borders—both geographically and stylistically—makes his collection one of the most memorable of the season.