Backstage At The Made by Mena Show During NYFW
- By: Meera Rathod
- September 11, 2024
Urban Camo…
Chris Mena‘s “Urban Camo” collection, showcased during New York Fashion Week, was nothing short of an artistic and conceptual exploration of urban landscapes.
Held in a warehouse in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, the setting perfectly aligned with the gritty, raw vibe of Mena’s designs. The evening began with a cocktail hour outside, building anticipation before attendees were ushered into the transformed industrial space, where candles lined the runway, casting a moody, almost military-like atmosphere. The show kicked off in a memorable way—a man seated at the end of the runway had his head shaved in a symbolic nod to military conscription, signaling the start of something powerful.
Mena’s collection fused urban and military aesthetics, drawing heavily on the themes of industrialism and militarization. The “Urban Camo” line reimagined camouflage not just as a tool of concealment but as a statement of resilience and identity within the cityscape. With each look, models showcased garments that featured distressed patterns, graffiti-inspired prints, and textures reminiscent of abandoned, decaying city infrastructure. The runway became a living mural of New York’s raw beauty—urban decay reimagined as high fashion.
The pieces themselves were unisex, further pushing the idea of inclusivity and versatility, much like the ever-changing city. Mena’s careful use of sustainable materials, recycled garments, and eco-friendly practices further grounded the collection in the ethos of modern urban living. With oversized silhouettes, bold prints, and a conscious nod to sustainability, “Urban Camo” captured the harsh, yet resilient spirit of New York.
This collection was a reminder of the influence of the city’s architecture, history, and social dynamics on fashion, offering a fresh take on what it means to blend into and stand out from the urban jungle simultaneously. The blend of utilitarianism and creativity made Chris Mena’s latest work a standout during this year’s Fashion Week.
Launch the slideshow below to see more pics from the Made by Men show during NYFW.