Wednesday, September 12, 2007

FASHION WEEK: Monique Lhuillier + Betsey Johnson


Betsey Johnson is well-known for her eclectic designs. She's a 65 year old woman who's probably seen styles repeat twice on the runway in the last 4 decades. In her Spring collection, she brings glamour to the ballerina look (left) and makes prom queens look like fairy princesses.

Tule and chiffon are big hits this season. Even Monique Lhuillier had several pieces based on the trend, as well as an acute appreciation for ruffles.

And I guess I'm just not a fan of Marc Jacobs. His Marc by Marc Jacobs line--fitted with polka dots and off-kilter designs--looked like he ransacked Two-Face's wardrobe.




Also ridiculously disappointing was the formless, colorless, and uninspiring Calvin Klein collection. Who would pay for any of that?

Zac Posen is more my speed. He went for the school girl meets Dr. Quinn medicine woman-safari style, added a few pieces with a broad shouldered-80s look--sans shoulder pads--and a couple surreal silky gowns.

Last year I chose my favorite designer of the season. It was Naeem Khan (left). This season his inspiration was the paisley pattern--more commonly known as a handkerchief/bandana design. You'd think it would look crass and cheap, but he found a way to make it look regal, with high-waisted, long pencil skirts and low-cut, v-neck minis. And even his white outfits were pieces to behold, for their embroidery, texture, and patterns. He's starting to look like my favorite for the 2nd year in a row.

Well, it's the last day of Fashion Week. Interns are packing up couture, celebrities and journalists are stocking up on freebies, and designers are either celebrating with the nearest glass of liquor or waiting on the edge of their seats for worldwide criticism. But wait! We've still got Banana Republic, the Donna Karan collection, and Tommy Hilfiger today. Let's hope fashion week goes out in style.

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