The Costume Institute Gala at the Met is one of the places to see Runway and Couture Fashion in all its glory. However, those who are in the know venture into the realm of Vintage for a unique look and a statement above the rest that says, “I am fashionable and contemporary with a twist.” Let us raise a glass to lovely ladies in Vintage and remember, Fashion repeats itself!
Marc Jacobs for Louis Vuitton has been a successful partnership for several years now. Always one step ahead of the trends, Jacobs has created a collection with a gothic feel mixed with jewel tones and a deconstructed flair. The deep V necklines on the lacy tops and the exaggerated layering on the mini skirts and coats makes this a fun, flirty collection.
The Chanel ruffle blouse has a deep V neckline with ruffles that would work great in recreating this runway look and the YSL jewel toned top is the exact same shade as the fabulous ruffled coat shown on the runway.
For his 2009 Fall collection, Giambattista Valli was clearly inspired by the Yves Saint Laurent collections of the 70’s and 80’s. The full skirted gowns, the ruched and draped necklines, the vivid colors and prints all scream YSL. Valli commented that his collection was more inspired by Saint Laurent’s “lifestyle” as apposed to his actual fashion but the apparent influence flows through the entire runway show.
For such a fabulous collection it is hard to believe that every single item that went down the runway is Vegan (except for a few of the models, perhaps). From the vegan legging booties to the silk slip dresses and the over-sized blazers, McCartney’s collection is wearable and lust-able. I am dying to get my hands on the navy iridescent moto jacket and maybe a jumpsuit or two.
The new Emanuel Ungaro collection by Esteban Cortazar has the same flirt and flare of the Ungaro collections if the 80’s. Beautifully printed cocktail dresses topped with cropped blazers and vivid colors mixed with muted tones makes Ungaro a cut above when it comes to sweet and sexy with out looking too made up. Every dress hugs the body is the most amazing way and the mixing of prints allows you to dress each item up or down. I especially love the colorful strappy sandals that finish every look.
There is something about Etro that makes me want to dress BoHo. Veronica Etro’s use of color and texture makes her “East meets West” collections hip and contemporary with a vintage vibe. Fringe, fur, paisley and gold lame all come together to create a rich palate of beautifully wearable clothing and every look is finished with of-the-moment-they-just-won’t-go-away gladiator sandals.
Oscar de la Renta is infamous for designing lady-like clothing. His silhouettes are always clean and flattering for women of all ages. Oscar’s Fall 2009 RTW collection appears little “old lady” (the big hair!) but the designs are actually extremely youthful. The jewel toned taffeta cocktail dresses and the fun use of leopard print makes this an ageless collection. And check out the hardcore shoes!
Frida Giannini has once again put out a fabulous collection for Gucci that is sure to set trends all season. The tight black pants, the geometric printed tunics, the slicked back hair and the sunglasses all scream MAJOR attitude! I especially love the sequin embellished dresses worn with the lurex textured leggings. I LOVE this collection!
Marc Jacobs Fall 2009 Ready-to-Wear collection.
Showing off big hair, exaggerated shoulders and neon hues, Marc is bringing back the 80’s. Interlaced with gray sweaters and of-the-moment harem style pants, the newest Marc Jacobs runway show was a smash hit.
Meeting while studying at Parsons School of Design in 1999, Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez founded Proenza Schouler in 2002. Instantly on the hit list with socialites, actresses and everyone in between, Proenza Schouler has been setting trends since inception. Going into its seventh year, this powerhouse is nonstop at giving women what they want to wear and for the first time ever expanding to include shoes and handbags.
Boxy leather jackets, sequins, jewel tones and sky high motorcycle boots are on the menu this season mixing with belted sweaters and opaque black tights. The zipper McQueen skirt adds an edge to any outfit and the YSL double breasted blazer would look great belted. Pairing the Laltramoda sequin pants with a jewel tone YSL blouse gives this trend a more mature silhouette.
