Dodiee, a fashion label, recently transformed its Fall 2026 collection debut into a spectacular cabaret experience at The Box, an iconic downtown venue. This innovative approach allowed the brand to weave a rich emotional story, drawing on themes of personal history, continuous movement, and evolving identity, presenting the collection not just as clothing but as a vibrant performance art piece.
Elisa Dahan, the visionary founder and creative director behind Dodiee, shared that the inspiration for this unique presentation stemmed from a recent trip to Paris, where she witnessed her first live cabaret show. This pivotal experience ignited the idea to merge her latest designs with the evocative nature of cabaret. The collection itself is a testament to contrasting elements, skillfully combining delicate sheer fabrics and intricate lace with robust leather and plush shearling. The color scheme, dominated by deep teal, rich plum, classic noir, and subtle metallic accents, served to amplify the dramatic flair, with textures designed to dynamically interact with the performers' movements.
The evening was punctuated by captivating acts, including an opening number by the legendary '70s supermodel Pat Cleveland, who performed an original piece dedicated to Josephine Baker. Following this, a group of eight dancers, expertly styled by former British Vogue editor Dena Giannini, presented the new collection. Their synchronized movements, choreographed in a Fosse-inspired style and set to electronic renditions of Dahan's mother's favorite tunes, powerfully articulated the brand’s core philosophy: fashion as a profound vehicle for emotion, remembrance, and the sum of human experiences. Notable attendees, including Martha Hunt and Candace Bushnell, enjoyed bespoke cocktails, underscoring the immersive and celebratory atmosphere of the event.
This groundbreaking presentation by Dodiee underscores the potential for fashion to transcend traditional boundaries, creating memorable and meaningful experiences that engage audiences on multiple sensory levels. By embracing performance art, the brand not only showcased its latest designs but also celebrated individuality, creativity, and the enduring power of personal narratives in the world of haute couture.