At the risk of sounding like Rachel Zoe, “Chanel is EVERYTHING”. I just love whatever Karl Lagerfeld does. Between his grand visions, over-the-top theatrics, master-talent and his taste in men (Baptiste Giabiconi), the Chanel show was the highlight of the Paris season. I loved much of what I saw this past week. As for the “trends”, well, “the ruffle” happens to be something my friend and Icelandic Designer Steinunn Sigurd, has been doing for several seasons. A couple of seasons ago, a Saks Fifth Avenue buyer told Steinunn, “Enough with the ruffles already”. Hmmm…bet you twenty bucks that there will be ruffles a-plenty on offer at that store come spring. (and PS: Steinunn kept the ruffles in one TDF (to-die-for suit)—see image after the link).
Black and white was a big story, lots of short dresses, horrendous shoes and “wearability” as a form of chic…which is an oxymoron. That’s the problem with the weary economy coupled with the need for showmanship. Not many designers can get away with overly grand ambitious shows or pieces. Many simply can’t afford to, and (most) customers don’t want to pay a premium for simplicity. With everything stripped away, one bad outfit tarnishes the collection…so there is little room for error. Boo-boos are sure to throw the whole game off. Anyhoo, here are some little bits and pieces for you to nibble on and decide whether you think the Spring season of the Paris shows overall was great, good, eh, fair, boring, scary or really sad.
Loved the Chanel show.
Simple, chic, cool. OK...so this shows you what I would buy if I were Prince, who sat front row.
Love the jackets and vests and...
Alexander McQueen was his usual very interesting except those shoes slash hoofs are just another version of shoes from Spring 10 that makes me glad that I am a guy. Oh, and nice hairdo.
Stella McCartney's collection was very wearable...almost too, in this case.
Here's an example of fashion faux pas at Sonia Rykiel...that which sh0uld be avoided at all costs.
Here's that Steinunn ruffled skirt I mentioned. It's fierce.
So is the jacket. A must see.
did you see the Viktor and Rolf tulle piece in the Monday Times? Whoa. I have no words.
Caught up on all the shows and just have to say McQueens show was sheer genuis!
Regardless of the pointless criticism that it was a "one note show", that note was supremely on key and a joyous expression of theater and creativity.
This is what a SHOW should be, inspired, exciting and polished. Lets hope that some of the other "designers" take a serious look. They may have more than one note but those notes are flat off key and frankly pointless. Gotta go as I have to run to 14th street and get me a giant fro before all those Jacobites snap them up
NOT!
How odd…..wearable chic clothes!!