I was already so much in the spirit of non-stop action and have synched with fashion week’s fast and furious pace that I stopped counting, and started attending shows one after the other! Every season, I gradually speed up and I’m getting more efficient through the week!
The day started at Lincoln Center with Fashion Shenzhen or else Chinese fashion. Three talented Chinese designers teamed up in this show and ultimately convinced us that China will soon have her own important share of the industry, not only consuming but also producing high-end design along with offering the manufacturing know-how. Ellassay stunned us with geometric jacquards, A-line dresses, and a sea-foam jacket, made of silk or cotton, in black & white or electric blue. Lizzy allured us with precious chiffon gowns, decorated with crystals and other embroidery, plus gold chiffon and lace in delicious sorbet colors. Finally, Haiping Xie seduced us with trendy silk organza, cloud graphics, dragon prints, embroidery, and origami elements in white & blue, orange and other colors.
Next door, the David Tlale show – atmospheric and theatrical – gave us some stunners in rich colors, with accents of gold and sparkle. It was choreography on the catwalk and a retro-ethnic concept at heart. You could notice impressive colonial style, African cultural influences, and a romantic flair. I loved the richly colored and embellished brocades; some of them also combined with leather in eye-catching full skirts, sexy shorts, and highly structured clothes in general. Models varied in terms of physique, and some were even sporting turbans. People were further excited with the guest appearances of supermodel Tyson Beckford and former Miss South Africa (2008) Tatum Keshwar.
Five blocks away – at the Hudson Hotel – Czar by Cesar Galindo underlined his strong connection to the arts by assigning various artists to draw sketches based on the new collection on exhibit. Models in colorful, exotic looks were placed at the center of the room on a foamy construction, while illustrators were seating around them; in the end papers, pencils, and paints were scattered on the floor giving a very artistic spirit to the presentation.
Going back to Lincoln Center, the Custo Barcelona was, as always, full of great vibes and upbeat music. He didn’t surprise us with a twist but with his innovative consistency and his commitment to vivid colors, the signature mix & much, the artisanal details, and some ethnic elements. It was playful, wearable clothes for men and women, and most notably, it included gorgeous swimwear!
My next destination was the Milk Studios (450 W 15th Street) where Tim Coppens showcased a fashion-forward collection in athletic spirit, with functional details and an attention-grabbing juxtaposition of warm and cold shades. It was very modern, and relevant; the next things that hipsters will rock on the streets!
Soon after, NY-based Vivienne Tam – who is also of Chinese origin – showcased a collection inspired by the decorative treasures of the Ming and Qing dynasties that are housed in the Forbidden Palace, such as pictorial porcelains and boxes. She used Technicolors, cobalt blue, intense greens, and super saturated corals to modernize traditional patterns printed on textured cottons. She also employed power mesh with laser-cut appliqué overlays, and knitted techno mesh to trim sleeves and seams, as well as eyelet lace to create the perfect mix of high-tech with natural materials. The carefree spirit of the 60’s and 70’s was best viewed in bold A-line shift dresses and mini-skirts, spiced up with a menswear influence.
Delving more into the Chinese culture and philosophy I decided to attend the Fashion Shenzhen presentation at the Hub – the basement at Hudson Hotel – where more Chinese designers were presented, and people from the industry had the chance to see the clothes in more detail. Some of them were magnificent! Models were rotating in a peculiarly slow pace, but I managed to understand the pattern and get most of the snaps. I was officially introduced to a whole new chapter of creativity and vision; Chinese fashion!
After such a great pleasure, why not attend a real fashion party such as this one Czar by Cesar Galindo threw at Bandit Roost (313 Church Street) to celebrate the presentation of his sexy and artsy collection? Following so many shows, faces are recurring at the after-parties, but this is what it’s all about; having fun and get prepped for the next very busy, action-packed day!
Food for me was later served at Mercer Kitchen, Mercer Hotel – a very fashionable spot with great decor framed by stone-covered arches. My luscious dinner with my hubby included great white wine and a low-calorie fish specialty. Got recharged!
xxx
Elena Sendona
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