On the 9th of September 2024 high fashion label Montes presented their new collection during New York Fashion Week. Against the monumental backdrop of Manhattan’s skyline, the event took place on the rooftop terrace of the Vanderbilt, offering unparalleled views of New York’s most iconic landmarks: the Grand Central Terminal and the Chrysler Building.

Jef Montes {-} ”The Sirenita collection is an extension of my 8th edition Bilbao international art and fashion winning design. This year I was able to expand my new prototypes at BIAAF Lab. Thanks a lot Elisa Palomino for the mentor support and helping me to expand my portfolio. I love the city Bilbao. I feel so inspired by the shapes of museum Guggenheim. The reflective waves remind me of my voluminous way of working with materials. I did some research on Frank Gehry and I studied his way of working. Inside the museum I was captivated by the repetitive power of Andy Warhol. I decided that I wanted to create one single textile blueprint and duplicate that pattern using several thicknesses of monofilament. Each design feels different, but all of them are part of one family. It’s all about creating the balance between monofilament qualities versus woven binding differences. Combining these contrasts transform the entire identity of the Sirenita dress-coat.”

Sirenita. Mermaid bubble burst transformation. The material designed in collaboration with TextielLab Tilburg moves like a swirl around the body. Glass blown shapes that reminiscent the bubblegum hair of Ariel 1989 Walt Disney The Little Mermaid. The materials used for the collection are recycled fishing-lines from Jefs fisherman grandfather. Zero waste woven liquid fabrics are draped and sewn by hand. Sail patterns are applied for the textile and shoe design. The Marinero sandal heels are developed in collaboration with Chris van den Elzen, Shapeways, K3D print and René van der Berg. The collection reflects childhood escapism and the idea of daydreaming.