Marc Jacobs loves the ’80’s — at least this season he does. His Fall collection saw the designer in an ’80’s art house sort of mood, pairing dresses and skirts with black tights, berets and sunglasses. Marc played with form in bell shaped skirts and dresses with stiffened collars. I found myself drawn to his houndstooth dresses and to a black leather minidress with a wide, standup collar.
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You don’t go to J Mendel if you don’t like fur. For Fall 2008, designer Gilles Mendel strayed into over-the-top territory with fur stoles, fur overcoats, fur-trimmed sleeves…whew! If there is an animal with its pelt left in NYC, I’d be shocked.
Let me just state for the record that I don’t have a problem with fur. I love it, it’s just that so many pieces that included fur can be a little overwhelming. My favorite pieces from the J Mendel Fall collection were those that were more understated. His jet black gown with a criss-crossed neckline and satin peplum at the waist was incredibly elegant, as was a tiered gown in an eggplant color.
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The Proenza Schouler boys were back where they started last season with an eye towards luxury. Sequins seemed to be everywhere — on a gold tank under tweed, all over kicky minidresses, and adorning slouchy, pajama-like pants and trousers. I loved the white secretary blouse with its oversized bow and the jewel-toned silk dresses over tights.
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Liya Kebede at Diane von Furstenberg
Diane von Furstenberg is known for her beautiful wrap dresses, but took the line in a new and sophisticated direction for fall. Drawing inspiration from 1940’s heroines, she created a nostalgic look with dresses layered under sweaters belted at the waist and then moved her into Asian-inspired cheongsam dresses and floor-skimming prints. The hair was filled with airy waves and often topped with a retro chapeau.
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Agyness Deyn at Oscar de la Renta
No Agyness Deyn at Preen, but she was in full force at the Oscar de la Renta show. When ladies who lunch need new clothes, this is who they turn to. The Oscar de la Renta show was unrestrained luxury with sumptuous silks and fur dripping from every surface. More aubergine! Purple is going to be everywhere for the fall season, so I hope you’re royally ready. The high-waisted purple trousers at Oscar D were to die for.
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