#PerfectDiaries: Alexander Roth explores the new meaning of Ann Demeulemeester, and captures Stefano Gallici’s debut.

In Alexander Roth’s world, Ann Demeulemeester represents an energy that can only be reminiscent of electricity shockwaves. Becoming an icon of herself part of the Antwerp Six, Demeulemeester stepped away from her brand in 2013, and ever since then it has evolved into a different era of design that has spearheaded curiosity into diving into her legacy for a completely new generation of fashion tastemakers. As the brand saw Stefano Gallici take over as Creative Director earlier this year, his debut for the brand has kept everyone’s eyes and ears open, as he beings to take on a brand that holds powerful presence in its memories.

Giving a glimpse into preparing for Gallici’s debut, stylist and creative director Alexander Roth took upon himself to document each step of the way in preparing for the SS24 spectacle by pouring his thoughts and feeling straight into #PerfectDiaries, exploring his look for the show, the process of getting ready with hairstylists Taisiia Povalii and Katrin Sachenko, and his reactions to the new chapter at the brand, all captured by photographer Maxwell Aurelien James.

24.09. /11:30: First things first - I’ve landed in Paris and immediately went into the fitting because I was that impatient to get in the mindset for Stefano’s debut as Creative Director at Ann Demeulemeester. I’ve been curious about what his take will be on the brand since his appointment announcement earlier in the year, though he’s been at Ann since 2020. We tried on a couple options but untimely I knew this leather look from last season felt the most me. I also took one more option with me shoot.

30.09 / 16:00: Hair and make up ready. Fully encompassing this darker, more wicked side of myself that Ann Demeulemeester brings out. Opted for these blood red extensions as a nod to playing a different character tonight.

16:30: The show look in full, captured by Maxwell Aurelien James.

17:30: Max and I also wanted to shoot this look from last season. The brand makes some of my favorite knitwear. But the star here are these riding boots. I have a couple in my personal collection and they’re a true staple for me.

20:10: Arrived at the Ann Demeulemeester SS24 show. A bit late, but then again, so is everyone else. A black tunnel lined with singular spot lights above set the ominous tone.

20:30: Photo call moment. But back to the hair for a second - I waned to tie the color tones into the boot. Oddly enough, I think this is my favorite image of the night as you can see all the textures and tones of the look.

21:00: My friend Courtney took this while we all scurried along the runway looking for our seats. As I lock eyes with strangers, old and new friends, the energy in the room feels calm yet eager.

21:09: When I saw this shade of blue come down the runway I was surprised yet happy. A colour reminiscent of the spring 1998 collection that we’ve only seen sparingly on the Ann Demeulemeester runway since then.

21:15: Blurry photo. But Kristen Owen back on the Ann Demeulemeester runway!!!

21:17: I throughly enjoyed Stefano’s debut. Notable house codes and references were executed beautifully to his own flare. It was romantic yet dark. Utilitarian but had this softness to it. Watching Ann herself across the runway grin was a highlight. I’m very excited to watch how Stefano comes into his own in his new role.

21:30: Off to dinner but feeling fashionably fed.