NYFW is a time when I am most thankful for the wonders of technology (we can't all be front row ticket holders). No, instead I, along with most of the world, take part via the screen. Thankfully sites like Vogue.com have the best trend updates and live videos of shows so that you can feel just like you were there.
In case you haven't been following along, I've compiled what are, to me, the most important, most innovative, most trend-forecasting shows from last week. And the best part? Ten minutes is all you need to get to know the collections that will be making a major impact this spring.
1. Marc Jacobs
You can always look to Marc Jacob for an imaginative collection, but this season was an absolute theatrical extravaganza. A tight Americana-inspired color palette creates cohesion among what could easily be considered an overly whimsical mashup of Wild West/Old Hollywood/Evel Knievel/Drum Majorette(/just about anything else you can think of) references. The entertainment factor was an at all-time high, but let's not forget that Jacobs is always at the epicenter of what is next in fashion, and judging from these looks, the message is simple: fashion should be fun! From fringe to sequins to those incredible face prints, maximalism is in and anything goes! (Marc said so.)
2. Rodarte
The rock-inspired romance seen on the Rodarte runway speaks to my very core. The 70s trend (which doesn't seem to be going anywhere soon) is elevated with layered textures and romantic silhouettes. The collection ranges from overtly feminine, seen in the tiered lace dresses, to having a certain "with the band" edge, a la the skinny scarves and more relaxed silhouettes. The glam 70s influence is strong, but it's married perfectly with timeless, romantic turn-of-the-century nods. Inspired by poetry, this collection fuses soft Victorian-era necklines and delicate silks and velvets with a harder, rock-and-roll attitude to create this soft and dreamy glam rock wonderland that could easily make my personal top 10 collections of all time.
3. Alexander Wang
The king of au courant streetwear, Alexander Wang's 10th anniversary collection encapsulated everything street style stars will be snapped in next season. Moto-inspired details, thick chains, wide striped denim, army surplus jackets, pajama dressing, and fringed leather were all present, creating a downtown cool vibe that seemed incredibly New York and yet also very LA. Overall, the collection hailed as another success in the career of the unstoppable (and super cool) Alexander Wang.
4. Proenza Schouler
Spanish influences were a common thread among many shows at NYFW, but no one seemed to present such an innovative take on it as Proenza Schouler. Classic silhouettes were deconstructed and turned on their heads, producing innovative lines and asymmetry that is so fresh and modern. The design duo was said to have been inspired by a banana peel and that's very apparent in the decision to forgo traditional closures, opting instead for rivets, ties, and bows that essentially kept the pieces from falling open and "un-peeling." The thoughtfulness that goes into creating a collection focused on reinventing the classics in such a daring way is something in itself to be respected and appreciated.
5. Diane von Furstenberg
For her insanely impressive 40th anniversary collection, Diane von Furstenberg did what she does best: she presented a runway that was an exact replica of herself. That is, everything reflected her knack for looking equally effortless and sexy. From Studio 64-era one shoulder gowns in brilliant saffron and pink chiffon to the iconic wrap dress presented in perfectly patch-worked florals, DVF knows how to flatter a woman and she consistently wows. Even the beauty, in fresh pinks, big waves, and a flower in the hair, represents how women will want to look in real life this spring. And isn't that what great design is all about?
What was your favorite show from NYFW?
