February 14, 2012
by Julia DiNardo
In her VPL collection, Victoria Bartlett proves again her dexterous vision in terms of style. Through simplicity of stretchy, malleable textiles and skin like tones, the designer induces the feeling of a melodic communion with the autumn nature
The juxtaposition of meticulously thought-out garments such as “deflection pants”, “deviation tops” or “opposition tunics” softly “blend” with the way the material twists and falls slightly at angles. The contrast of the colors use is highlighted by accents of black, silver and white on neutral fabrics, while the intricacy is fed by the way the garments are abundantly wrapped around the body. As an added bonus for those with somewhat different taste, chunky oversized wool sweaters, or scalpel style leather jackets are elegantly presented along with the meticulously adorned jerseys or the elaborated wraps around the body. Of note is the sixth season collaboration of Orly Genger and Jaclyn Mayer with Victoria Bartlett, creating handmade jewelry pieces for the show.
–Luiza Bilt
February 14, 2012
by Julia DiNardo
[All images via WWD]
Sally Lapointe F/W 2012
Accompanied by the haunting strokes of a violin a la Requiem for a Dream and a pumpinh smoke machine, a sharp and coherent collection parades between the throng of guests. Inspired by Kafka’s Metamorphosis, Lapointe‘s designs echo the protagonist’s experience of isolation and neglect after finding himself transformed into a giant insect-like creature ensued by his ultimate death. Clean off-white leather, silk and luxe layers of capes, crepe trousers and angular cut t-shirts are followed by taupe satin and navy wool cashmere. The coats are structured, some adorned with an homage to the creature’s limbs, and are paired with floor-length skirts, dresses or bodysuits. The snake-skin like mustard yellow and blue “Metamorphosis” print is the only non-solid color of the collection, serving as the transition toward ankle-grazing gold patent pants, fitted dress and flowing skirt. Maroon layers and brown lamb skin foretell the imminent finale of black; worth highlighting are the exoskeleton-like sleeves adorning both a loose and fitted dress that culminate in a sheer cape dress of the same material, paired with elbow-length skin gloves.
Katie Gallagher F/W 2012
The Katie Gallagher collection alludes to the wild, unruly nature of the earth and our inability to possess the space it occupies, an inspiration echoed most obviously in the models’ teased updos, green eye shadow and tribal black dots adorning either side of their noses. Again, layers reign in the lineup, placed in contrast with asymmetrical cuts and structured high-necked tops. The designs are predominantly black, a warm white, and an earthy green interspersed with brown pieces. A solid and coherent presentation with a clear and concise inspiration, Silent Soil F/W 2012 speaks to the helpless human condition in the face of mother nature.
–Maria Eilersen
February 14, 2012
by Julia DiNardo
Kara Ross was inspired for her Fall/Winter 2012 collection during a recent trip to Morocco. Pulling from her experiences in the Sahara, as well as her own Fine Jewelry Collection, the line is rich, vibrant and striking. The trip’s influences can be seen in Kara’s incorporation of beautiful jewel tones in purple, blue, green, and honey. As always, Kara’s collection features gorgeous stones and exotic skins to create bold statement pieces. One of the prominent icons of the collection is the scarab, an ancient beetle artifact, which has been recreated in onyx, malachite, hematite, amethyst, and Tiger’s Eye. The collection plays with geometric shapes and fine textiles to create pieces distinctive and unique.
The color palette carries over into her handbag collection with vibrant new skins, custom died for the collection. Kara debuted a new style, similar to her classic Trinity bag, which keeps the working professional in mind with plenty of space for the necessities as well as a spot for your iPad. Also available this season is a bag customization set available for retailers. The set beautifully displays the various stones, closures and skins available for handbags, making customizing your own unique Kara bag a breeze. With all the delicious new skins and gemstones, picking just one combination seems nearly impossible!!
–Ashleigh Smith
February 14, 2012
by fashion pulse contributor
[Images via Elle.com]
Captivating AND psychedelic only begin to describe Betsey Johnson’s Fall 2012 runway show. She liberated the creative endeavors of her mind, as she almost always does, by unveiling a collection of 60’s inspired ensembles. Take, for example, the first look of the show: “Sergent Pepper,” a sexy take on a herringbone suit, as skin tight as it gets. The rest of the show boasted a trippy, mod feel with over the top neon electric pinks, purples, and oranges combined with a lot of black and a bit of sparkle. Mini skirts had their moment as well as fluffy fur collars and a variety of dresses towards the end. Betseymania ended with models cheering her on, silver pom-pom style, as the designer herself took a moment to shine, accompanied by her daughter and grandaughter, via her famous runway cartwheel and split. A revolutionary herself, Betsey Johnson is perfectly inclined to describe a decade of social revolution through radical fashion.
-Alana Quagliariello
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