New York Fashion Week 2012 - ALL POSTS

Here we go, the half way mark!  To say that we’re still pumped about the shows is an understatement. With so many young designers showing for the first time, or others finally being able to show at the tents, it is the excitement everyone is thriving on. And, with  the weather cooling off, the fashion parade of furry fantasy surrounding Lincoln Center is  something to be seen!

Philip Lim’s collection was an exercise in color duality, favoring a black and white combination for most of his sleek looks. He stated superheroes in civilian life as an inspiration for the collection, which might explain the few cape-coats and great bold graphic pieces. Regardless of his theme, the line-up was beautiful and very chic. 

Carlos Miele looked at the Brazilian southern states of Rio Grande do Sul for his inspiration. This twist was evident throughout the collection with the gauchas, or cavalieras, references that were only skin deep; the collection maintained that Miele flirtatiousness.

Chris Benz camped it up with a line-up of celluloid-inspired tableaux. Each model stood to represent a silver screen icon in looks that defied time. We know all too well that Mr. Benz loves that vintage doll aesthetic and this season he embraced the theme with unparalleled creativity.

As expected, Carolina Herrera showed another ode to feminine beauty this season. The textiles, the colors, the embroideries screamed elegance and chic and her use of fur and feather detail gave her clothes the requisite luxury high notes. 

Ohne Titel’s small collection set the label’s bar another notch upward. For the past few seasons this design team has demonstrated their impressive creativity and tailoring know-how. This season the looks were sexy and sculptural, perhaps  hard to grasp at first glance, but up-close the pieces are well constructed and make complete sense.

Preen’s latest collection was one of their best –being both artistic and commercially viable. The Preen duo like to indulge their artsy side, but sometimes it can overpower the clothes, causing  people to question if it is really worth all the fuss. Of course it is and no one will complain!

We’ve always thought that Reem Acra should be the one leading the charge at Balmain to update the original philosophy. Her collection was strong, if not a little hard-edged, but still had that slight French quality Reem Acra favors. It’s great to see a designer comfortable enough  in her craft to be able to equally design dreamy bridal gowns and red carpet showstoppers, as well as tailored leather suits.

Lots more to come from Day 4…