Just some commentary on the latest fashions from this year’s New York Fashion Week 🙂
Ralph Lauren
It doesn’t look as though she is wearing a real skirt at all; it doesn’t cling to her thighs, getting rid of the urge people have to keep pulling at their skirts. It looks as if Ralph has wrapped the silkiest, most gleaming cloth around the model, everything down to the last intricate detail weaved of pure gold. She seems as if she was whirled, quite literally, into the material. And securing it with a belt definitely adds to the flaring, ‘making a statement’ effect. If I had to choose one word that describes my emotions when I picture myself wearing this, I would have to say that I’d feel absolutely bold. The way the skirt rages around the model like a thunderstorm, even when she is standing still is very electrifying. It flies everywhere in a good way, a subtle way. She looks powerful.
Tommy Hilfiger
I’m sure the intent in this particular line was to make both the models and everyone watching to feel as if they are part of a royal showcase. I feel like nowadays, everything is much more liberal. People wear whatever they want and do whatever they want. Society cares more and less. Society cares more about things that are okay and less about the important things. Seeing a girl in tiny shorts is a common occurrence, but still that girl will be shamed for it. I feel like this ‘royal’ line captures that essence perfectly- there is definitely a posh effect to it because of the infinity embroidery down the front, because the chiffon material is seen as formal or fancy. The piping on the bottoms just adds to the distinction of the royal family, not to mention the frilly socks. The shoes may be very modest loafers, but Tommy has taken the meaning of a surprise twist and involved both heels as well as a metallic color. And, of course, not to state the obvious but the crown reeeeeally emphasizes the meaning. These, I’m assuming, are the details people think of when they think of royalty. I would imagine Gigi feels brave in this. Brave, defiant, and royal.
Paolo Sebastian, The Snow Maiden
Paolo Sebastian has a way of creating dresses that seem like they are coming out of nowhere. His dresses almost mesh together with the skin of the models, exposing everything and nothing at the same time. The major emphasis is placed on one of the most important aspects of dresses- the skirt. The skirt portion, in any dress, is the sensory gland- it makes us feel. Puffy skirts make us feel like we’re on clouds and long, flowing skirts make us feel like we’re capturing everyone’s attention as we walk. Clinging skirts make us feel powerful and ready to take on the world, one heel at a time. Short, flaring skirts make us feel girly and fun. Each one of Paolo’s designs takes on a new feeling, he creates something magnificent every time he sits down to design. The Snow Maiden, in my opinion one of his most elaborate masterpieces, gives the ‘Ice Princess’ idea so much more dimension. He truly did create a Snow Maiden, a princess even.
Tommy Hilfiger: Street Style
I can only imagine by the vibe these two give off that Tommy is trying to bring back a little bit of the 90’s while staying true to today’s fashion. The boyfriend jeans have made a comeback only recently, but the colored fringe takes it to a new level. The model on the right, her top is reflective of today’s casual fashion choices, but the one on the left takes the black boots and puts a much more modern twist on the old sweater look, turning it into a dress. Tommy has, once again, done a great job in trying to mesh the 90’s and the new generation together.
Fenty by Rihanna, Puma
Puma has always been all about sports, much like Nike and Adidas. I’m guessing they took on Rihanna as a way to help them with their look- they didn’t want to be the run-of-the-mill sports store. They wanted something unique going for them. I think their partnership with Rihanna did wonders for them. Her edgy look really spiced up their appeal and this particular look off the runway is a great example. They really captured Rihanna’s look- and who doesn’t want to be Rihanna? The shoes have been transformed into heels and the basketball shorts shorter, the sports bras cut into a V-neck fashion and much cuter than what was seen before. If you want edgy, go Puma.
Prabal Gurung: Spring Collection
Simplicity is always golden. Every red carpet event you watch, you see at least two celebrities wearing something classic. You can’t not have a runway look that doesn’t capture the simple elegance of a solid color, a solid fabric, a solid cut. It’s a part of the whole runway glitz and glam- you need to have something that balances everything out. You see models walking with headpieces so intricately designed that they carry everything but an animal on their heads, you need something that brings every show down to earth. These kinds of dresses are like the salt in cooking, you always need it and it will always stick around.
*Credit goes to wherever due for all pictures. These are not mine.