RUNWAY REVIEW
What can we really say about Narciso Rodriguez' Fall 2010 bevy?
There wasn't a single red-carpet gown. Or, should we say a worthy one?
The designer, who was inspired by "beautiful curved lines and shadows," did so through color-blocking, cropped jackets and minimalist looks.
The color scheme dramatically changed from gradient orange, grey and greens to black.
Asymmetry, nail heads and front zippers played as the details for the collection. But how will Narciso's pretentious followers take the drastic - but well needed - change?
The models of Koi Suwannagate's installation show on Broadway chatted in a woodland-themed spread coated in assorted designs of cashmere and prints. Stunningly arranged, models were in black and agate blue cashmere kimono tops with sleeve extensions to create seasonal versatility. Complementary to the forest theme, a deep green cropped long-sleeved cashmere top with scoop neckline and ribbed sleeves created a natural look on the painted and chatty ladies.
As beautiful as the clothing appeared, models distracted on-lookers by fidgeting with their hands and nails. But perhaps Koi had planned on that.
Perry Ellis was good. Or shall we say, it was better than what we expected.
Men paraded down the runway in cool layered apparel that reinforced masculinity in a fashion community that has been slowly driving towards adrogynous looks.
Knits in subtle-toned colors were discreetly placed under scarves and outerwear.
We'd say our favorite look came from various men donning suspender jumpsuits - on the verge of a snow jumpsuit, but not quite there.
Whether we'd opt for a printed scarf or a model from the show, we know one thing for sure - can we have better seating next time? Oop!
Have you been looking for a technically-challenged cumberband lately? I know I have.
Lanvin showed more aggression than usual during its menswear presentation in Paris on Sunday - meaning less shiny fabrics and dandy fun. There weren't any coveted wigs this season, either. The collection was described to be for men who already know fashion.
In that case, men should know how to wear over-sized trousers and coats, don trousers tucked into boots, and make holed-loops on your shoulders look effortless and rather attractive.
But, just in case you're a little fashionably challenged, Lanvin made an attempt towards glam streetwear - with bags that would do all of your talking, and perhaps walking, for you.
Evidently, Louis Vuitton is looking to let their sales do the talking - disclosing a lookbook shot in a consumer relatable location. Although I hate libraries and studies, it made for a pleasing image. While initially flipping through the Pre-Fall lookbook, I didn't feel that anything represented Louis Vuitton quite well. Instead, I nodded towards J. Crew, if you will - as if the design studio were based in North Dakota, hosting designers from South Dakota. Still, I will note the courage of Marc Jacobs' prominent attempts towards prints - for we all know, big bold prints result in a tasteful, less expensive look (and price, right?), thereby bringing in more consumers. So, a round of applause there, Marc. However, I suspected that it was all a ploy when I came across a chic sheath with an abundant leather hem and an icicle leather fringe collar to match, but that was only for a moment. Regardless of the delightful fur trimmings, I shyly look forward to the Fall 2010 season of Louis Vuitton.
Granted, it's not Oliver Theyskens, but Peter Copping has a way of pulling the wool over our eyes - so we won't note the distinction...this time! Crushed bows and witty flowers aren't particularly fooling us, but are they fooling you? With a frail color palette, conveyed by minimalistic grays and ethereal floor-sweeping gowns to flatter, Copping invites everyone back into the world of Nina Ricci for Pre-Fall - but do we really want to go? Oops! Nevertheless, I wouldn't mind playing around in the two-toned gloves.
Oh Em Gee, I think I have just died. Honestly, Pringle of Scotland was never on my to-do list. And, sad to say, I kind of feel guilty. I'm not sure if maybe it was the words ‘Pringle' or ‘Scotland' which chased me away. Nevertheless, whatever Clare Waight Keller is planning to do over at the brand, let's pray she stays on the track of her latest pre-fall bevy. The Pre-fall collection showed more than cozy knits, cobweb aesthetics and prints! We love prints! The bevy was so modern and so traditional at the same time. That's what I said. As the collection progressed, silhouettes began to get more dramatic and body conscious. I kind of feel Clare (can I call you Clare?) invited over Thom Browne, Angela Missoni and Matthew Williamson over for wine and tricked them into leaving their sketches to combine them all into one. Hey, it could happen!
There's something exceptionally suspicious about Vera Wang's pre-fall collection. And it begins with an ‘R' and ends with an ‘E' - with the letters ‘O-D-A-R-T,' in the middle. Surprise! That spells Rodarte. In fact, her complete collection seemed a bit "borrowed" from various other designers. We are able to see Vera in a whole new light: one that I like to call "knock-off." Leaving her artsy girl behind, Vera experimented with structuring and tailoring. Oh, how thoughtful of you, Vera - but let's see if your "Rodarte inspiration" will be more reasonably priced than actual Rodarte. If so, you've got yourself a deal.
Dull, dull, dull ! That's what I forever have and always will forever think of Doo.Ri - cute and frilly just isn't for all and sundry. Though, I do commend the designer for her attempts at prominent prints for pre-fall. The collection was full of staple cocktail dresses, with a bit of flair from time to time. Throughout reviewing the collection, I became mesmerized by the same simple silhouette, as my mind drifted to what Lanvin may be possibly be doing for pre-fall. Or better yet, Victoria Beckham's dress line - yes, I became that bored. All in all, Doo.Ri states she's just experimenting for fall - and I hope it begins and ends right here, or I'd advise to bring your sleeping bag to the Fall season show. Oops !
It's safe and satisfying to declare that a majority of designers today go to Christian Louboutin for footwear throughout presentation season. However, that shouldn't sidetrack you from a solid analysis of each designer's collection. No way, no how. Luckily, for J. Mendel, he's using furs for his pre-fall bevy - an additional distraction that I could die over. Amid a mindful approach into metallics and asymmetry, Mendel revisits his hip creative being. After all, a girl does just want to have fun, right? Like many designers, Mendel is prediciting a tremendous amount of black for fall. With substantial support from the celebrity culture, pre-fall will be fun to watch and see who wears what, and where it may lead to with his remaining market.
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