New York is the perfect magnet for the fashion world’s best-dressed and couture queens, but more than that, it’s the stage where designers unveil their work, offering us a glimpse into their creative process, their vision, and their voice. If concerts are to artists what Fashion Week is to designers, then it’s an invitation to step inside their world, to experience, in real time, what matters, what’s shifting, and who’s telling the story.
This year, on February 9, at Glass House NYC, Dionne, the visionary behind FUTURA, debuted The Hunt, their FW/SS25 collection at MEFeater’s Annual Galentine’s NYFW. Bringing together a fusion of retro-futurism, nostalgia, and raw storytelling, the collection was a testament to FUTURA’s signature blend of past-meets-future aesthetics.
Photo courtesy of @by.bundee
With a runway filled with bold textures, striking silhouettes, and avant-garde elements, The Hunt challenged convention while staying deeply personal. How does one from Texas combine elements of hunting culture and pull it all off during fashion week?
By being themselves and pushing the boundaries of what is and isn’t fashion!FUTURA’s The Hunt was a reminder of why the brand is one to watch. Sponsored by Fenty Hair and Puma Footwear, the collection blended utility with a futuristic edge, turning the runway into a high-fashion survivalist dream. The show’s energy was undeniable throughout the evening and included a live performance from Honey Bxby, who donned the runway in custom FUTURA pieces. But beyond the performance and glamor of the night, The Hunt carried something deeper for followers and newcomers, a mirror into Dionne’s roots, influences, and artistry. The runway was just as dynamic, with Jourdin Pauline and Tiva Fox leading a lineup of 14 models who brought The Hunt to life. Each look made a statement, reflecting FUTURA’s fearless approach to fashion.
We also got a chance to speak with Dionne, the designer behind FUTURA and their latest collection, The Hunt.
This interview has been edited for concision and clarity.
The Knockturnal: Can you tell us about your fashion journey? What initially drew you to design?
Dionne: Creativity and self expression have always shaped my upbringing. With an aunt who was also a designer and great aunts who made custom performance looks in the ‘70s and put on local fashion shows, fashion has been in my roots for generations. I started building my portfolio in high school, where I founded a fashion club with a few friends and had a passion for reconstructing clothes I would thrift. Through my freshman and sophomore year of college, I joined another fashion club putting together runway shows and working on styling projects. This led to a paid internship in LA where I was promoted to working full time. After being laid off, I returned to designing and launched my own brand.
The Knockturnal: FUTURA is known for pushing creative boundaries. What inspired you to create a brand centered on futuristic aesthetics?
Dionne: The brand is inspired by my love for retro-futurism, nostalgia, and storytelling through design. Growing up with an imaginative spirit and passion for reconstructing thrifted clothing shaped my vision of blending classic silhouettes with futuristic concepts. I wanted to create a brand that is inspired by both the past and the future while reimagining style for a new era.
The Knockturnal: THE HUNT made a bold statement on the runway. What was the inspiration behind this collection?
Dionne: THE HUNT was inspired by my connection to nature, wildlife, and my Texas native roots. While inspired by my roots in hunting culture, I’ve always been more fascinated by the style and fashion associated with it than the act of hunting itself. The collection combines the rugged elements of hunting culture with a futuristic twist, using organic textures and earthy tones.
The Knockturnal: How did the collaboration with MEFeater, Fenty Hair, and Puma Footwear shape the vision and execution of this collection?
Dionne: After two years of conversations with MEFeater, we finally had the opportunity to work on this NYFW. With the help of Haus Of Creators, we teamed up with Fenty Hair, and our brand partnership with Makia Entertainment helped secure Puma’s support. Both Fenty Hair and Puma aligned perfectly with our brand vision, from the sleek hairstyles to the camo Mostro sneakers, which complemented our pieces beautifully.
The Knockturnal: Were there any standout pieces or moments from the show that felt special to you?
Dionne: A standout piece for me is the new SS25 Poca 2.0 suede top. I originally created Poca in 2022, inspired by tribal and my flintstone-like fur designs, and at the time it was a unique concept. Usually, when our original designs get become too trendy, I shy away from them, but this time I wanted to stay true to my authenticity while adding a new twist. I chose to revisit the mix of suede and fur, a theme that carries through in a few other pieces in the collection.
The Knockturnal: Your designs are known for their avant-garde silhouettes and futuristic approach.
Can you walk us through your creative process?
Dionne: My creative process starts with drawing from my diverse influences—from my creative upbringing and family design legacy to my love for vintage pieces and my roots. Most times I experiment with unconventional materials/ textures and my inspiration can strikes from random things I encounter in my daily life, whether it’s a texture, a moment, or a detail that sparks an idea. I’ll jot it down or immediately start curating and developing a concept.
The Knockturnal: If you could work with any designer, artist, or brand, who would be your dream collaborator and why?
Dionne: I could see myself working with brands like Roberto Cavalli or Marni. Both brands are known for their textures which align perfectly with my style and inspiration.
