Antarctica is Earth’s fifth-largest continent and is entirely covered in ice. It’s not usually the first place you’d think of for fashion inspiration, but leave it to creative director Pamella DeVos of Pamella Roland to find inspiration in one of the most barren and icy regions on the planet.
DeVos took a recent journey to Antarctica, where she was inspired by the continent’s quiet grandeur and frozen refinement. From the glacial formations to the vast landscapes, she began formulating ideas for Pamella Roland’s fall 2026 collection. One of her biggest inspirations came from penguins and the contrast of their black-and-white plumage. The opening black-and-white tailored look, accessorized with black leather gloves, easily invoked the contrast of penguins’ plumage and, with its strong peak lapels, also signified power dressing for women.
While Pamella Roland is known for its cocktail dresses and evening gowns, it was a very different choice for the brand to open with a suiting look, but it built up to the dramatic, red- carpet styles. The black-and-white contrast color palette was soon seen on a gown with a white bodice, black skirt, and cascading white train, accessorized with black opera gloves, a look that’s much more expected from Pamella Roland.
Beyond the black-and-white contrasting looks, the color palette for the collection also included glacial blues, icy whites, grays, and rich jewel tones, softened with blush and nude hues. The finale look, a halter gown with crystal and paillette appliqués paired with a white down puffer cape, was worthy of a magical snow queen and showed that Arctic inspiration can move well beyond industrial parks and down coats.
Images courtesy of Purple PR
Although DeVos offered hints of pieces, like the opening suit, that were outside of what defines the Pamella Roland brand, she still stuck to her tried-and-true elaborate gowns. She is a reminder to always think about the customer and what works, but it’s also worth offering them something unexpected and seeing how they respond.
—Kristopher Fraser
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