“I’ve always liked Playboy; I think it’s very tasteful.”

…said Trishelle Cannatella.

A debateable statement once, but no longer—Marchesa has designed its own rendition of the classic, Playboy bunny costume in celebration of the opening of the new Playboy Club on June 4.

The collaboration is a bit surprising; Playboy and Marchesa are polar opposites in aesthetic. Take the Playboy bunny: however iconic, it’s kitschy. Tacky, taboo if anything. Then take Marchesa: a luxury fashion house whose collections exude sophistication, elegance, beauty. However, the age-old adage of opposites attract isn’t said without reason.

“Marchesa is thrilled to be a part of the Playboy Club launch, and for the opportunity to design a one-off Playboy bunny costume—one of fashion and pop culture’s most iconic emblems, in celebration of the return of this club,” said Georgina Chapman, designer and co-owner of the luxury brand.

Drawing inspiration from the original bunny suit as the foundation of the design, Chapman both elevated (and refined) the costume with ethereal touches—achieved all by Marchesa’s signature hand embroidery and draping.

The final result—to be unveiled May 26—remains true to both the legendary Playboy uniform and Marchesa’s own aesthetic. It’s still sexy, cheeky, and all things kitschy. It’s also modern. Feminine. Romantic. Is this the new trend? Integrating the taboo to everyday (read: acceptable only in the fashion world) and blurring the line between kitsch and luxe?

After all, Louis Vuitton’s Fall 2009 RTW show was an ode to bunny ears and Parisian coquettes with expensive taste. (Obviously anything of the sort deserved a mention on ABC.)

Here’s to post-Easter festivities! Marchesa’s bunny suit will be auctioned for breast cancer awareness after its debut. Hellooo, next year’s couture Halloween costume for a Vogue-sponsored party?

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{image + source via vogue.co.uk}