[Images via Elle.com]
Kinder Aggugini
If you hadn’t stopped to take in the Macy’s ads proclaiming designer Kinder Aggugini’s US arrival, you might want to start to take note. The designer’s eponymous label’s Fall 2011 show was a graceful unity of the simple yet tailored aesthetic he created for the Kinder Aggugini for Impulse line for the mega retailer. There was an architectural symmetry to the knee-length coats and pencil skirts, but a playful exuberance in the floral prints that peeked from beneath. Even a basic tee or two made an appearance, and they didn’t feel out of place for a second.
[Images via Elle.com]
Dolce & Gabbana
A little 1920s gangster, a little “Vogue” Madonna (minus the cones), the Dolce & Gabbana Fall 2011 show juxtaposed the masculine/feminine mix to a tee this season, and yes, we mean that literally. The looks alternated between the male and female-inspired pieces, with emphasis on fur trim, a multiplied star motif, and deconstructed zoot suits. Two secondary prints, a modern brocade and sheet music, provided a bit of whimsy and sultriness to the fall collection. In the accessory department, it seems Dolce & Gabbana left no shape or shade unturned, as star-shaped glasses, coin-purse belts, and bright pink oxfords were just a handful of the items to gush over.
[Images via Elle.com]
Helmut Lang
If Kinder Aggugini displayed an architectural symmetry for Fall 2011, then Nicole and Michael Colovos had architectural asymmetry under wraps over at Helmut Lang. The duo bedecked their bowl-cut model in draped and ruched cashmere, shearling and fur jackets, and cascading knit dresses, all in an elegant palette of black, white, taupe, and grey. The asymmetry came from the fact that there wasn’t an even hem in sight, and silhouettes that seemed predictable ended up multi-layered, one-shouldered, or highly angular. With her little rebellion in the form of black socks and boots, the Helmut Lang girl may don a sleek dress for the party, but she’ll show up on a motorcycle and pull out a cigarette holder the minute she arrives.
-Kaci Hamilton
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