In the world of fashion, where innovation and creativity are constantly sought after, Ancuta Sarca brings a fresh perspective for Spring/Summer 2025 (SS25) by fusing contrasting styles from different eras. Her latest collection, showcased in London, merges the corporate minimalism of the 2020s with the expressive, rebellious energy of the 1960s. This juxtaposition reflects Sarca’s signature style of blending seemingly opposite influences into a cohesive and thought-provoking collection.
The Influence of Corporate Minimalism
Sarca’s SS25 collection draws heavily from the world of modern corporate attire, which she describes as “mundane” yet familiar. The inspiration comes from the sights and sounds of the typical workplace — the click of pens, the hum of keyboards, and the monotonous shades of beige and grey that dominate office environments. Sarca’s keen observation of these settings led her to reflect on how fashion in these spaces often leans towards functionality and minimalism.
The collection incorporates these elements, with dark-hued and monochrome tracksuits taking center stage. The focus is on simplicity and comfort, with Sarca paying homage to the everyday wardrobe staples of the corporate world. Yet, within this minimalism, she finds room for experimentation. The collection features a range of footwear options that echo this balance between function and flair, from Crocs in clinical whites to Clarks Wallabees in soft, earthy tones.
A Nod to the 1960s: Animal Prints and Bold Expression
While corporate minimalism may be the foundation of Sarca’s SS25 collection, she juxtaposes this with a contrasting theme: the raw, animalistic energy of the 1960s. This era, known for its explosion of artistic expression, rebellion, and boldness, is the perfect counterpart to the reserved nature of modern corporate attire.
Sarca injects this influence through animal prints and exaggerated forms, showcasing a signature snakeskin high-heeled pump adorned with a masculine shirt collar. Leopard print boots are another standout in the collection, blending seamlessly with sportswear-inspired stripes. This creative fusion of bold prints with structured, minimalist designs is a hallmark of Sarca’s ability to blend distinct elements into something new and exciting.
The collection also ventures into menswear, with cycling-inspired sportswear and loafers revamped with Velcro fastenings. These pieces, available in faux snakeskin, chrome, and classic black and white, encapsulate the dualities of modern life — from the hustle of corporate routines to moments of personal expression and freedom.
Sustainability at the Core: Collaborations with Crocs and Clarks
Sustainability is at the heart of Sarca’s vision for SS25. In a bold move that combines creativity with environmental responsibility, Sarca has announced partnerships with two iconic footwear brands: Crocs and Clarks. These collaborations not only breathe new life into familiar styles but also emphasize Sarca’s commitment to eco-friendly practices.
Her collaboration with Clarks is a standout, as Sarca reimagines their classic Wallabee shoes using deadstock materials. By repurposing these shoes, Sarca highlights the importance of sustainability in fashion. The collection features three distinct versions of the Wallabee, each showcasing Sarca’s flair for transforming classic styles into something fresh, while maintaining the environmental consciousness that has become a central theme in her work.
Likewise, Sarca’s partnership with Crocs pushes the boundaries of creativity and sustainability. In the SS25 collection, Sarca deconstructs and reassembles Crocs into hybrid footwear pieces, blending elements from trainers and loafers with the brand’s iconic designs. The use of electrostatic flocking techniques adds unique textures, giving the shoes a bold, distinctive look that is unmistakably Sarca’s. The result is a collection that marries the comfort and practicality Crocs is known for with Sarca’s avant-garde style.
Partnerships play a significant role in Sarca’s SS25 collection, not just in terms of sustainability but also in creative exploration. Yann Le Bozec, Marketing VP for Crocs ROW & Hey Dude International, commented on the collaboration, saying, “Sarca’s visionary approach reinterprets our iconic styles, showcasing her commitment to innovation and creativity.” This partnership demonstrates how two brands can come together to create something that challenges the norms of both comfort and style.
Through these partnerships, Sarca continues to push the boundaries of what fashion can be. Her SS25 collection is not just about aesthetics; it’s about creating a dialogue between past and present, between minimalism and expressionism, and between sustainability and style.
