The fashion world has always had a penchant for the avant-garde, but Ilona Perla Marie-Claire Slama, the visionary behind the brand ILONA, takes it to a whole new level with her second collection, “PSYCHOSIS.” Launched in the creative crucible of Paris, this collection is an audacious dive into the depths of mental health, echoing the raw emotions and experiences of Ilona’s teenage stay in a psychiatric hospital.
Born in Paris and raised in Los Angeles, Ilona’s narrative is as vibrant and compelling as her designs. After venturing to Berlin to study neuropsychology, she quickly realized her true calling lay in fashion. Her first dress, crafted as a Christmas gift for an ex-girlfriend, was the catalyst that propelled her from academia to the world of haute couture, marking her leap into a realm where self-expression reigns supreme.
“PSYCHOSIS” is more than just a collection; it’s an emotional autobiography captured in fabric and thread. Each piece is meticulously designed to evoke the chaos and tumult of mental distress. The palette of soft whites and pastels creates a haunting juxtaposition against the vibrant stains and deliberate distressing, narrating a story of pain, resilience, and unyielding spirit. The incorporation of glitter and crystals shines through the darkness, symbolizing that, no matter the struggle, one’s inner brilliance can never be extinguished.
The collection’s use of a diverse fabric spectrum—from ethereal tulle to robust lambskin—reflects the multifaceted nature of mental health. It’s a commentary on fragility and strength, where an innocent lamb graphic conflicts starkly against the bold proclamation of “psychosis.” This imagery is not merely decorative; it’s a conscious choice to engage with the complexities of youth and innocence set against the weight of mental anguish.
Ilona’s creations demand to be worn not just with beauty but with a sense of purpose. They encourage the wearer to embrace their individuality—sometimes deranged, occasionally aggressive—but always unapologetically themselves. This ethos is woven tightly into the brand’s identity, which champions exclusivity and meticulous attention to detail, producing garments in limited editions that command attention and provoke thought.
As “PSYCHOSIS” hits the runway, it’s clear that Ilona is not just crafting clothes; she’s crafting conversation. With every piece, she invites us into a dialogue about mental health, vulnerability, and the unyielding pressure to conform. In a world that often seeks to silence the struggles within, Ilona’s artful expression resonates loudly, urging us to confront our narratives and embrace the entirety of our experiences, both beautiful and brutal.
Fashion, after all, is not just about aesthetics; it’s an embodiment of our truths, and with “PSYCHOSIS,” Ilona has certainly made her statement.
photographer: @joshuajhourigan
model: @adamatylda
interns: @elsieangelicaflora, @hunnydont, @mayaklingelschmidt, @bora.miqelle.labz, @gunthry
logo design: @jamie_parkhurst
leather accessories: @olivierslama
press: @plbrtn @autrementpr