Cucculelli Shaheen FW25: A ‘70s Revival with a Modern Downtown Twist
The collection embodies two distinct personas from this era, each with its own style and destination.
Image Courtesy of Cucculelli Shaheen and Lindsey Media
A cloud of incense drifts across the side of the runway, the smoke curling through the air as the opening chords of an electric guitar wail out, setting the tone for the show as the first model struts down the runway. Cucculelli Shaheen’s New York Fashion Week 2025 show takes place in Chelsea, but the music, atmosphere, and designs bring an energy that feels like it is unfolding somewhere on the Sunset Strip in the ‘70s.
The married design duo Anna Rose Shaheen and Anthony Cucculelli always walk the line between downtown rocker edge and ethereal romanticism. The two founded their brand in 2016 and have since mastered the art of flawlessly combining elements from an underground music scene with the elegance of high fashion and art. Their latest collection is an ode to the 1970s, reimagined with a contemporary style that feels both modern and nostalgic.
Flowing fringe, patterned crochet, studded celestial motifs, lace, and gauzy, billowy fabrics float down the runway. The styling further solidifies the ‘70s aesthetic with beach waves and sheer florals paired with snakeskin boots. A standout piece is a sheer black gown with intricate floral embroidery surrounded by ornate gold detailing. The high-neck design features embroidered florals forming a striking collar.
The silhouette is sleek and form-fitting, yet the sleeves and hemline bring weightless movement, contrasting the dress’s structure with freedom. The embroidery patterns are reminiscent of baroque artistry, seemingly inspired by the gilded ceilings of the Louvre. The model’s hair, styled in tousled waves with wispy bangs, strengthens the design’s vintage bohemian aesthetic.
Image Courtesy of Cucculelli Shaheen and Lindsey Media
The collection embodies two distinct personas from this era, each with its own style and destination. One is a free spirit with a more bohemian style—crochet, sheer floral dresses with lace-up details, tie-dye-inspired patterns, and billowy sleeves evoke visions of the deserts and beaches of Southern California, a sun-drenched musical festival, or perhaps even the iconic Woodstock.
The other side of the collection has a more edgy, dark, and structured aesthetic—leather pants and jackets, button-down shirts layered under patterned vests, shimmering studs, and velvet coats define this counterpart. This half of the collection radiates more masculine energy, contrasting the soft florals and vibrant colors for sleek silhouettes and striking blacks.
The first woman is carefree and feminine, perfectly suited for the sunny West Coast. The second is more fit for rock clubs or a downtown dive bar, either as a groupie or perhaps on stage herself. The two contrasting looks connect the laid-back glamour of Los Angeles with the gritty, rocker energy of Downtown New York City.
Cucculelli Shaheen truly revives the essence of the ‘70s through every look that graces the runway, accompanied by a live band playing riffs that make you want to time travel—either to experience the era for the first time or to relive it once more. The collection feels sexy and chic while maintaining the core aesthetics that defined the decade. From a consumer perspective, Cucculelli Shaheen’s Collection 19 offers a way to time travel through fashion by providing the perfect look for a glamorous night at Chateau Marmont, a live show on Sunset Boulevard or Delancey Street, or the ultimate look for this year’s upcoming Coachella.
