The Emerging Knitwear Designer Quietly Dressing Zara Larsson and Hilary Duff
Larsson’s hibiscus skirt, for example, took over 120 hours to complete
In August 2025, pop star Zara Larsson opened Tate McRae’s „Miss Possessive” tour in Stockholm wearing a custom beaded mini skirt adorned with hibiscus flowers, sparking attention for its intricate hand-woven texture and Y2K-inspired sparkle. The piece was created by Paul Aaron, a rising knitwear designer whose quiet work behind the scenes is shaping the stage wardrobes of several high-profile pop artists. Though not yet a household name, Aaron’s craftsmanship is becoming a subtle signature in the visual identities of performers seeking bold, nostalgic yet modern aesthetics. Aaron’s approach blends traditional hand-knitting techniques with unconventional materials like metallic threads, sequins, and recycled fibers to produce garments that move with the body under stage lights. His designs often begin as sketches inspired by early 2000s pop culture, then evolve through weeks of meticulous loom work and hand-beading.
Breaking News
Hollywood Elite Honor Carpenter, Theron, and Domingo at Academy Museum Gala
The Next Generation of Collagen: Small Peptides, Big Claims
The Impending Rise of Cobalt Blue in 2027 Fashion
The Secret to a Flawless Autumn Complexion is Sunscreen LayeringLarsson’s hibiscus skirt, for example, took over 120 hours to complete, using a custom-dyed cotton base woven with iridescent thread and hand-sewn floral appliqués. Aaron emphasizes comfort and durability, ensuring each piece withstands rigorous choreography while maintaining its delicate appearance. How Handcrafted Details Define Modern Stagewear Unlike mass-produced costume houses, Aaron works directly with artists in small batches, allowing for deep collaboration and personalization. He avoids digital patterns, relying instead on manual stitch counts and tactile feedback to shape each garment. This slow fashion method contrasts sharply with fast-turnaround tour wardrobes, yet resonates with artists seeking authenticity in their visual storytelling. Hilary Duff, another client, has worn Aaron’s knitted crop tops during recent promotional appearances, citing the designer’s ability to merge vintage glamour with contemporary fit.
Aaron says his goal is to create „armor that feels like a second skin,”
Aaron says his goal is to create „armor that feels like a second skin,” balancing spectacle with wearability. What Happens When Nostalgia Meets Sustainable Craft? The demand for Aaron’s work reflects a broader shift in pop fashion toward individualized, artisanal details that stand out in an era of digital sameness. As audiences grow more attuned to craftsmanship through social media close-ups, designers like Aaron gain visibility not through runway shows, but through performance moments that go viral. His process, while time-intensive, minimizes waste by using deadstock yarns and repurposed embellishments. Industry observers note that this model could influence how emerging designers approach celebrity styling—prioritizing quality, collaboration, and storytelling over volume and speed. Frequently Asked Questions How does Paul Aaron source materials for his designs? Aaron primarily uses deadstock yarns, recycled metallic threads, and repurposed sequins from vintage garments, reducing environmental impact while maintaining high visual impact.
Why do pop artists choose hand-knitted stagewear over traditional costumes? Artists value the uniqueness, flexibility, and personal connection that comes from collaborating directly with a designer who crafts each piece by hand, resulting in garments that move naturally and reflect individual style. Is Paul Aaron planning to launch a standalone fashion line? While Aaron has received interest in expanding his work, he remains focused on custom commissions for performers, citing the creative freedom and intimacy of artist collaborations as his current priority.