Jenny Packham

February 11, 2014

NYFW Fall 2014: Jenny Packham

[Photos via Style.com]

It’s really no surprise that many of the collections unveiled this week are infused with a ‘70s vibe. After all, the decade was a time for glamorous, albeit effortless fashion. And, harking back to the period allows us to slow down a bit—to escape from the fast-paced chaos that is New York Fashion Week—even if it’s only for a brief moment. Jenny Packham offered us such an outlet by paying homage to Bianca Jagger, a quintessential, no-fuss style icon. Jagger appeared as though she lived in her eveningwear, and many of Packham’s jewel-tone dresses would have fit seamlessly into her wardrobe.

From crystal encrusted, deep V-neck gowns with high slits to sequin-embellished minis trimmed with the softest feathers, there’s no question that all of the looks were adoringly lavish. Yes, even though the models walked slowly and gracefully to fitting songs like “3rd Stone From The Sun” by Jimi Hendrix and Lana Del Rey’s “Blue Velvet,” there was not enough time to take in the intricately patterned beadwork; a Packham signature.

Of course, there were plenty of softer silhouettes for those that prefer to make a classic statement. Ruffled sleeves provided a flirty finish to one crimson red number that was adorned with a golden gem brooch above the hip. And, an off-white design in a gauzy silk was cinched at the waist, the flowing material forming a gorgeous bow-like illusion.

As a nod to the relaxed, throw-on-and-go style of the ‘70s, Packham rounded out her red carpet-ready line with loose, lustrous sweaters that paired well with full skirts and wide-leg satin trousers. And, the accessories—from a crop of ostrich feathered clutches to chunky gemstone earrings and bracelets—were eye-catching enough to speak for themselves. In other words, as far as Packham’s concerned, you don’t need to pile on much in order to look stunning (aside from one of her designs, of course). And, isn’t that what effortless dressing is all about?

February 20, 2013

NYFW FALL 2013: It’s All in the Details, Part I

by Julia DiNardo

I love fashion from an overview perspective of taking in an entire look in one fell swoop from the runway ‘sidelines,’ but more than that, I love being able to scrutinize and admire details up close to truly appreciate the artistry and design. I’m hoping you feel the same way too, and via my super duper lens on my camera, I was able to capture some great close-ups at runway shows and presentations. I’ve featured some commentary with each image; enjoy!

Amazing, luxe texture and saturated color in this fur vest, as well as in the lipstick and tinted hair at Carmen Marc Valvo

Jenny Packham proves that she can impart defined elegance to every day dressing, while dazzle with a high dose of sparkle for evening.

Packham again shows off her deft skill at the arranging of crystals and jewelry on garments; plus, I loved the simplicity of the tied bow in the hair (created by Jeannie Syfu of TRESemmé)

A favorite every season is always Mara Hoffman; great cuts and amazingly engineered prints, like the ‘cheetah skin’ pictured above, and in movement on the runway, below.

A close up while backstage of the amazing jewelry by Pamela Love found on the runway at Mara Hoffman, which perfectly fell in waves over the tousled tresses.

In Rafael Cennamo’s collection, everything was gold and incredibly ornate — close ups of the details do it justice, which had a slight 20’s vibe

Cennamo was inspired by the Hall of Mirrors at Versailles in creating this collection

The symmetry and colors of this Rafael Cennamo collection are a mastery of precision and cut.

Continuing with some heavy metal, gold pieces, the bracelets and hardware on this clutch at Monika Chiang are to die for!

A balance of the delicate and soft with the luxe, and warm –red-tinged fur allowed the caviar-like beading and embroidery details to peer out from this sheer dress, a big trend for fall 2013

-Julia DiNardo

February 15, 2012

Fall 2012 New York Fashion Week: Jenny Packham, Leather Japan, Norisol Ferrari

by Julia DiNardo

[All Images via MBFashionWeek.com]

Jenny Packham F/W 2012

Emerging from a dimly lit background, rippling with dry ice, models for Jenny Packham’s fall collection transformed into femme fatales, setting the scene for a show that was evocative of a 1946 film noir. The models sauntered down the runway in sequined, shimmering gowns that emphasized strong shoulders and even stronger embellishments. The look was completed with an updated version of the coif with rolled under bangs and dark matte lips. The collection captured the allure of old Hollywood glamour with its flowing, sparkling dresses that flaunt a woman’s best assets with plunging necklines and open backs. Jenny Packham’s modern take on this classic era has created scene-stealing pieces that have the power to transform any ordinary woman into a seductive vixen that no one would dare to mess with.

Leather Japan F/W 2012

A halo of bags suspended over The Box presentation space at Lincoln Center allowed guests to view Leather Japan’s assortment of handbags from all angles in order to better admire their craftsmanship in handling leather. This presentation brought designers from the other side of the world to New York to showcase the leather products that they are making in Japan. In each of the four corners of the room were two models displaying garment designs made, intricately at times, from leather. Leather Japan’s presentation showed people that if they want quality in their leather goods, Japan has an ample amount of designers and artisans ready to fulfill this desire.

Norisol Ferrari F/W 2012

Strong yet feminine was the message that was put forth by Norisol Ferrari’s collection for fall. Combining delicate fabrics such as lace on dresses with durable leather or python skin, Ferrari explored the idea of using glamour as “a coat of armor.” The collection included detailed pieces with expert tailoring in alligator, python, mink, tweed, cashmere, lace, charmeuse, and velvet with ample amounts of leather in the accessories as well as the clothes. There was also an emphasis put on the headgear the mannequins wore, with head accessories ranging from top hats and feathers to a crystal and studded mohawk cap. With inspiration stemming from a variety of sources,from Jean Harlow to “Mad Max,” Ferrari’s pieces found a balance between classic soft Victorian elegance and tough biker-chic, creating a woman who is dressed to kill.

–Victoria Garcia

September 27, 2010

The Fashion Pulse Daily New York Fashion Week Team’s Top Spring 2011 Trends:

by Julia DiNardo

For the spring 2011 season, we certainly saw our fair share of trends. What are our favorites from the season from the Fashion Pulse Daily team? Read on to find out!

[All Images via Elle.com]

[J. Mendel Spring 2011 Collection]
Amazing Draping & Pleating
Designers weren’t afraid to show off their deft skills at draping and pleating this season, as horizontal, perfectly laid draping (seen above) and rich, Fortuny-like pleats added an air of ladylike classicism to Spring 2011’s runways.

[Marc by Marc Jacobs Spring 2011 Collection]

That 70′ Show

Every season boasts a general consensus of inspiration from decades past, and this time around the ’60s and ’70s most visibly reined. Everyone was talking about the Marc Jacobs and Marc by Marc Jacobs collections that heavily mimicked the 1970s vibe with everything from the hair and sunglasses to the free flowing silhouettes, fabrications, and color palettes.
–Julia DiNardo

[Nicole Miler Spring 2011 Collection]

Spotless Whites
This season I was very much in love with the use of pristine whites on the runway. It added a particular grace to each of the garments. Made from delicate chiffons and silks, these pieces were simple and tasteful. The flowing white fabrics were alluring, with hints of sophistication as well as seduction. The way the material clung to the body showed a true appreciation for the feminine form and highlighted the extraordinary talent of these inspiring designers.

[Z Spoke by Zac Posen Spring 2011 Collection]

Playful Prints

Who doesn’t love bright colors and eye-catching patterns? I sure do! My favorite looks this fashion week were the fabulously, funky designs of Zac Posen and Rachel Antonoff. Their quirky baby doll dresses in blues, greens, yellows, and reds were brilliantly conceived and tons of fun! Each look had such a fresh, youthful spirit. Perfect for a girl who simply loves life!
–Claire Schmidt

[Nanette Lepore Spring 2011 Collection]

Blushy Pinks

It brings out color without being garish and overpowering (which sometimes a red or purple can be!) and the slightly warm hue exudes a delicate femininity.