Àcheval Celebrated Its Argentine Roots With a Gaucho-Inspired Performance

When the universe brought Sofia Àchaval de Montaigu and Lucila Sperber into each other’s lives (they were both on the design team for Rochas menswear), the two felt that it was a sign that they needed to bring the Argentinian gaucho style to the masses. Both were born and raised in Argentina and shared a love of their country and its rich sartorial heritage. So it was only a matter of time before more Argentines, Delfina Blaquier and her esteemed polo-playing husband Nacho Figueras, joined the duo to launch a fashion label that celebrates all things gaucho.

“We grew up in the countryside and always thought the silhouette of the gaucho was special,” Àchavel de Montaigu explained. “For us to share this with the world is nothing short of a dream come true.”

For the debut of their fourth collection, 10 looks were on display within the plush red velvet interior of Spring Studio’s sunken living room. From Gato pants accessorized with makeshift boleadoras belts to lightly frilled blouses, the essence of the free-spirited gaucho was imbued in each piece.

Guests like Sofia Sanchez de Betak, Steven Klein, Gucci Westman, Princess Mafalda of Bulgaria, Karla Martinez de Salas, and Bee and Francesco Carrozzini could be seen admiring the new pieces.

“Indémodable. It will never go out of style,” Àchavel de Montaigu continued. “It’s for the spontaneous woman, one who isn’t afraid to be unruly like a gaucho.”

As more guests poured in and Champagne flutes continued to float around the room, Argentinian artist Cecilia Bengolea briefly paused the festivities to present an interpretive dance piece. Bengolea’s body mimicked the beats of traditional gaucho music track, while a black-and-white video of her blissfully riding through her country’s desert projected onto a screen behind her. A crescendo of delightful cheers erupted at the closing, and attendees couldn’t help but wear a wide smile on their faces. Though the presentation was nearing its end, the slightly turned up music and energized crowd hinted that the party was far from over.