In Yaku Stapleton’s design universe The Impossible Family Reunion in RPG Space, the past is fertile soil for reimagination that pushes possibility into new territory. For SS26, pre-colonial Caribbean resistance is the inspiration underpinning  A Ground to Stand On, which explores the arrival to a new land, and the encountering of the people who already live there

At the intersection of fashion and performance, models enter the space with staggering movements and inquisitive wonder; with crouched steps and shifting eyes; with fluid movements that radiate self-assurance. The models do not immediately leave after their walk, but instead make their way to a set in the centre of the space. A fabric landscape of green and blue with tall, plant-like structures. They interact with their surroundings and each other through touch, as well as through speech not meant to reach the audience’s ears. 

A visual language of belonging is established as the colours of this streetwear collection are rooted in the natural world; the palette utterly cohesive with that of the set.  The exaggerated proportions of boots, made from layers of thick fabric and puffer material, give authority to movement and recall the sturdiness of mountains. The pointed forms of the plant structures are referenced in a tie that is stacked with these shapes like a spine. These shapes also extend out of sleeves, are sewn onto trousers, and are incorporated into the shape of boots.

Hoodies and oversized cargo trousers have a lived-in quality, as black and brown print smudging suggests the earth’s dirt. The use of layering, including satchels and capes which recall images of pre-modern travellers, suggests a functionality suited to the environment. Minecraft chic, a woman beside me jots into her Notes app, astutely recognising the influence of gaming and its aesthetics in this design universe. 

Just before the final walk is a moment that seemingly encapsulates the afro-futurist vision of this presentation. In the centre of the set, two models draw fabric swords at each other, which had previously hung from trousers. But crucially, a fight never comes to fruition. This is, after all, an alternate world. A means of creating space for a future that rejects the boundaries established by the past.

Words By: Carolina Fernandez
Images Courtesy: Yaku
Photographers: Morgan Williams & @agathe.theshots