Gladiators of Fashion: New York Runway Recap

Let’s talk Vikings First

If you follow me, you already know my thrill of attending the Anna Sui runway show, which was an amazing theatrical feat — cinematic even. New York Fashion Week Fall 2015 gave me a renewed excitement about working in the industry and was a great reminder to get out more and get inspired. It’s like rocket fuel.  Click here to view how Vikings and Scandinavian interiors inspired this collection, and learn how Anna’s artistry, talent and kindness to those she works with manifests at a show.

Although enthralled with Anna’s Viking inspired collection, it was the image of a GLADIATOR that resounded throughout Mercedes Benz Fashion Week in New York.  Strips of woven tapes, fabric and leather were sewn on skirts, dresses and coats, sometime tough, sometimes peek-a-boo.   This is no small feat for the pattern makers. Let’s take a look.

Glamorous Gladiators

I will never go through a car wash again without thinking of Custo Barcelona. Yes designer Dalmau was inspired by those flapping strips that suds your auto.  Talking about inspiration coming from everywhere.  Love how he marries his signature patters to this technique.

Marc Jacobs’s show was an homage to Diana Vreeland.  The brocade mixed with the leopard and plaid is a nod to the fashion great indeed, but the technique of the strips as a skirt brings Vreeland’s style into the the 21st century.

Michael Kors alternates sheer and opaque.  He contrasts the opulence of this technique, even incorporating beading, with the casual vibe of a simple sweater and loafers.  So Kors!

This sporty version is of course by Tommy Hilfiger.  He turned The New York Armory into a stadium celebrating his 30th year and shared his love of football + Ali MacGraw in the 70’s.

Proenza Schouler snagged an even more prestigious venue, The Whitney.  Their warriors marched past iconic modern art wearing felt, feathers, and fringe.

Peter Copping, Oscar’s hand-picked successor, debuted his first collection for Oscar de la Renta.  It seems fitting that he worked in velvet and lace.  It’s no surprise that his front row devotees included both new and old guard, from Taylor Swift to Barbara Walters. Ladylike style lasts forever.

Although these are not so gladiator in style, they are kissing cousins and I would be remiss not to show them off.  These skirts by Tamara Melon and J.Crew are trimmed in double-sided cut fringe.  The dual color adds to the dramatic motion, both sexy and sweet.

I have lots more gorgeousness to share but since the London and Milan shows are just finished and Paris is about to start, I want to see what common threads emerge.  Will the tapestry looks of Tory Burch have legs?  The natural wool fringe in knits stay chic?  Plaids? Fuchsia? Cut outs?  Stay tuned.

Until then, if you want a daily dose of trimspotting, head on over to my Instagram.

Stay inspired!