New York Fashion Week Fall 2012 - Part One

New York Fashion Week
Fall 2012 Favourites
Part One

The Fall 2012 Fashion torch was lit on style island New York last week, where the best US and other international designers showed off their winter collections. There have been so many incredible shows so far, which I will highlight in the next few posts. This first chapter focuses on emerging colour trends - red, black and metallics. Click on the image to enlarge it.


Jason Wu

A Jason Wu winter has a significant Asian appeal and an air of mystery for 2012. Structured military designs from Imperial China inspired a chain of modernized Mao jackets edged with fur. A glamourous 1940's Shanghai was translated into figure-fitting red and black dresses, delicately garnished with the finest gold embroidery. 

Zac Posen

Zac Posen patrons will be all dressed up for Fall 2012, in Japanese-themed peplum dress suits with obi belts, gold jacquard knee-length dresses and hourglass-enhancing corseted evening gowns in glossy duchess satin. Colours ranged from forest green and midnight blue to champagne and ruby red. These sculpted gowns seem to be made with Sofia Vergara and Coco Rocha in mind. 

Badgley Mischka

A glitterati of gowns were presented at Badgley Mischka's 2012 offering, in a host of metallics from glazed gold to burnished bronze and iced silver. Elegant pant suits was vitalized by metallic blazers and fur neck wraps, while gowns were generously daubed with sequins. Models wore electrified hairstyles to contrast the glamourous looks.

 Reem Acra

Lebanese designer Reem Acra radiated the Fall 2012 runway with flashy gold gowns and metallic mini's. Classic dress suits were given a luxurious makeover in leather, metallic tweed and houndstooth. A glittering sequin skirt ensemble (pictured fourth on top row) caught my eye, while angular cut-outs added a sultry edge to floor-length evening gowns.

Prabal Gurung

Neoteric designer Prabal Gurung reinvented sheer cut-outs and digital-print designs for his winter collection, in black and blue neoprene, patent leather and golden lamé. Slick tailored pants were accompanied by capes and fur coats. Ostrich feathers and ruffles enhanced fanciful evening dresses, and perhaps the most striking feature - models in stark blue eyeshadow.

 Rag & Bone

My first thoughts about Rag & Bone winter range was warmth - most literally. While other designers gave us skimpy dresses, Rag & Bone brought us cozy wrapped coats, furry vests and snug printed knits. Layering added depth and interest; skirts over skinny pants, jackets over jerseys, dresses over tights, a mix of mismatched prints and belts over everything.

Naeem Khan

Ethnic opulence was the founding factor at Naeem Khan's Fall 2012 runway show, where his Indian roots shone through with bindi-inspired prints and intricate age-old Eastern embroidery. It's as though he gussied up the tribal trend. His exquisite gowns were showered with metallic beading, sequins and feathers, all of which made for compulsive viewing.

Monique Lhuillier 

Monique Lhuillier's Fall 2012 collection presented us with bold shades of scarlet, enigmatic ebony and lustrous gold. Graphic print dresses were belted for a more curvaceous silhouette, while irresistibly seductive gowns flowed like lava. I loved the extravagant red ruffled gown (pictured bottom row). Lace and beadwork adorned the many evening gowns, which we will be sure to see soon on the red carpet.

Part Two to follow. Who are your favourites from New York Fashion Week?

Stylista of the Week - Sarah Jessica Parker

Sarah Jessica Parker brought her style and savor faire to the red carpet this past week, as she left New York City for her Australian tour. What's great about Sarah Jessica is that she doesn't stick to a specific style, always keeping her looks fresh and interesting. That's why she is hailed as 'Stylista of the Week'...or maybe I just needed an excuse to feature her outrageous hat somewhere on my blog.

1. Sarah tried on a colour-block look by Narciso Rodriguez for the 'Tower Heist' movie premiere in New York. Her taffeta dress combines unusual shades of soft pink, burgundy-bronze and deep royal blue. Black straps, a bow-belt & pointy-toe Manolo's tie it all together.

2. For the premiere of her movie 'I Don't Know How She Does It' in Melbourne, Australia, Sarah wore a dress from Prabal Gurung's Spring 2012 collection. It has a metallic purple bodice and white pleated skirt, splattered with shimmery violet. She carries a spiked Christian Louboutin clutch and walks in Pierre Hardy heels, her trademark bouncy curls in place.

3. The Sex & the City actress displayed a more sleek look at New York City Center's Reopening Gala. She chose an ensemble from Antonio Berardi's Spring 2012 line. Her contrasting charcoal grey and black coat dress was worn with sheer print tights and Manolo Blahnik heels. Her pulled-back hair matches the sophistication of this look.

4. SJP was a vibrant presence at a press conference in Melbourne. Her gorgeous sunshine yellow dress with colourful abstract print is by Vera Wang. This is my favourite of all her outfits. Aqua pearls hung from her neck and white pointy-toed Manolo's bedded her feet.

5. Sarah channeled Carrie Bradshaw at Melbourne's Oaks Day Spring Carnival yesterday. The actress looked splendid and stately in a two-tone pale pink and white Jonathan Saunders dress. She paired it with a glossy slate grey Antonio Berardi coat. An ornate crystal headpiece, string of pearls and her favourite white Manolo heels completed her look.

6. Sarah Jessica did her fashionable take on 'Ladies who lunch' at the VRC Oak Club Luncheon in Australia. I don't think anyone noticed her tweed Chanel dress. Instead, all eyes were on her enormous and elaborate black sculpted hat by Philip Treacy. A tad too much perhaps? But you've got to take your hats off (no pun intended) to Sarah Jessica Parker. She isn't afraid to experiment with out-of-the-ordinary new looks.

New York Fashion Week Favourites 2011 - Part One

New York Fashion Week

Spring/Summer 2012 Collections

New York Fashion Week has set the city abuzz, with the best US-based designers presenting their Ready-to-Wear Collections for Spring/Summer 2012. It runs from 8-15 September this year. There have been so many awe-inspiring shows, it's impossible to post each and every one. I've decided to share a few of my favourite collections thus far. 

Tadashi Shoji

Tadashi Shoji featured a garden of gorgeous dresses in his floral inspired Spring collection. He payed homage to the "enchanting beauty and splendor of the tulip", as seen in his reverse tulip shaped skirts. Beautifully hand-painted silk-linen dresses flourished in shades of rose, daisy, fern & magnolia. His range of romantic blush-toned evening gowns were sprinkled with floral appliques. I like that this collection wanders from summery brights to graceful subtlety.

Prabal Gurung

The first thing I was drawn to at Prabal Gurung's collection was the glorious parade of purple. His abstract floral print dresses were given a multidimensional lift with rubber palliates, tulle and floral motifs. The Nepalese designer was inspired by Japanese photographer Nobuyushi Araki's series called 'Sensual Flowers'. Aqua green, black and white made up the rest of the palette, colouring tailored jackets, laser-cut dresses, wool suits, leather roped cords and silk georgette floral frocks. Of all the collections thus far, this is one that stands out with it's valiance and creativity.

Zac Posen

Zac Posen's Spring 2012 collection will gratify glamourous women with an appreciation for Old Hollywood glamour. Posen has an innate talent for accentuating the curves of a woman's body with his superbly fit mermaid gowns. This season, he revives this silhouette with fitted corsets, luxurious duchess satin and embellished tulle. Necklines, for the most part was off-the-shoulder. Shades of blue were juxtaposed with ruby red and ivory. A glossy and elegant collection that deserves an outing on the red carpet.

Jason Wu

A modern and refreshing collection from the celebrated Taiwanese American designer. 

Jason Wu presented a sophisticated Spring 2012 collection with a youthful aura. Grey, black and white ensembles were energized with a splash of bubblegum pink and fluorescent yellow. The only print used was petal-patterned, seen on chiffon dresses, blouses and pants. The most notable feature of the collection are the peplum dresses and skirts, rounded off with a black bow belt. Simple lines aside, chic cocktail dresses were adorned with Swarovski crystals and feathers. I like that this collection is cohesive, yet each piece retains it's unique character.

Rachel Zoe

I found myself surprised by the classic appeal of stylist Rachel Zoe's Bridget Bardot-inspired collection. Staying within the boundaries of her personal style, Rachel's designs are effortless and wearable, imparting relaxed glamour. Zoe offers tailored suit jackets, multicoloured maxis and georgette jumpsuits, all of which can be worn from day to night. She also featured cropped pants and a spot of animal print. I particularly like the third dress on the bottom row, with it's shimmery metallic print and ruffled sleeves. 

Christian Siriano

You will remember Christian Siriano as the 'fierce' designer that won Season 4 of Project Runway. For Spring 2012, he presented an invigorating range that set the runway alight in vivid orange and chartreuse. Sandy beige maintained the calm. What began as simple and straightforward ended in waves of ruffles and tulle. I found that even the simple looks were striking; flowing pleated maxi skirts, palazzo pants, striped jersey t-shirts and shift dresses. Sea-inspired dresses were decorated with coral-like chiffon ruffles. I love the pairing of the bright sandals, which are also designed by Siriano. 

Divas and Darlings - CFDA Fashion Awards 2011

Red Carpet Fashion
CFDA Fashion Awards 2011

The CFDA Awards were held in New York this week, where designers were honoured for their exceptional contribution to fashion. Marc Jacobs took home the 'Lifetime Achievement Award', whilst Celine's Phoebe Philo won 'Best International Designer'. 'Womenswear Designer of the Year' was awarded to Lazaro Hernandez and Jack McCollough of Proenza Schouler. The award for best merging womenswear designer went to one of my current favourites, Prabal Gurung.

I get pretty excited about these type of awards shows, as the sole focus is placed on excellence in fashion design. Designers showcase their best designs on their preferred model or actress of choice. It is a celebration of beautiful creations and an appreciation for the art of style. It was impossible to put up pictures of all the outfits, but I have posted the most impactful looks from the evening. This is red carpet fashion at its best. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

The Supermodels

Dutch model Doutzen Kroes wore a raspberry red one-sleeve gown by J Mendel. Czech export Karolina Kurkova dons a shimmery fern green wrap dress by Diane von Furstenberg. The hoodie is an interesting touch but those strappy heels have got to go. Czech model Hana Soukopova wears an embellished off-white gown with asymmetrical frilled hem by Marchesa. This reminds me of Halle Berry's Oscar 2011 dress. Australian model Miranda Kerr looks gorgeous in a slinky black cut-out gown by Michael Kors. Head to toe, this look is perfection. Brazil's Alessandra Ambrosio is beautiful in a red v-neck Prabal Gurung gown.

Precious Pearls

Pearl tones were a major trend on the purple carpet. American Italian model Elettra Wiedemann wore a wispy chiffon pleated gown by J Mendel. French beauty Anais Mali wore a creamy satin dress with sheer long-sleeves by Sophie Théallet. Katie Cassidy was sweetly simple in an embroidered dress with uneven hemline by Iranian born designer Behnaz Sarafpour. Victoria's Secret model Angela Bellotte is celestial in a white low-neck gown Grecian gown. Whitney Port chose an ivory Pamella Roland dress with floral beading on the shoulder.

Bright Young Things

Ashley Greene wore a neon pink and black mini by Michael Kors. She seems underdressed for this event. Tunisian model Kenza Fourati wears a billowing maxi dress by Marc Bouwer. The sapphire blue colour works incredibly with her skin tone. Emmanuelle Chriqui is a spectacular sight in David Meister. She chose a citron yellow strapless mini with chiffon train. Love the pairing of the purple bejeweled Manolo Blahniks. Chanel Iman chose a kaftan-style keyhole gown in sea green by Max Azria. Mum-to-be Jessica Alba wore a salmon and mauve ensemble by Diane von Furstenberg.

Black and White

Kirsten Dunst took on the menswear trend in Patrik Ervell. The styling is too stuffy. Chloe Sevigny wore an unusual combination of black leather and white lace from her Opening Ceremony line. I don't like those slipper-like shoes. Leelee Sobieski also chose a masculine suit, hers by Adam Kimmel. It may be classy for the office, not a fashion gala. 90210's Shenae Grimes is dressed in a lace corset and black trousers by Rebecca Taylor. Ethiopian supermodel Liya Kebede chose a halter-neck black and white dress by Derek Lam.

Dismally Disillusioned

Namibian model Behati Prinsloo wears a shaded blue mess - there's a difference between 'vintage' and 'antique'. I'm not fond of Liv Tyler's Proenza Schouler outfit because of the kaleidoscope/lego print. Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen wear their own line, The Row mixed with some Chanel. I really don't get these two, they are the only ones carrying large satchels with evening wear. Actress Amber Heard wears a sheer beige overlay dress. The black embroidered bodice looks like a nasty rash and the shoes and belt don't add up. Marcia Cross looks fantastic for her age but this sparkly grey Pamella Roland jumpsuit just isn't inappropriate.

Somebody Call 911

The fashion police have to be alerted about these looks. Socialite Julie Macklowe has been swallowed by a slimy green swamp. Why would someone make this dress? British heiress Daphne Guinness's look is incohesive. She overstyled what was an elegant mini dress by Abed Mahfouz. I always mistaken Lady Gaga for a drag queen. Must be the hair, or the makeup, or the dress or the monster heels, or everything.

Eva Mendes and Rose Byrne in Prabal Gurung

Eva Mendes and Rose Byrne
dressed by Prabal Gurung

I've began to sit up and take notice of Nepalese-American fashion designer Prabal Gurung. His bold designs are pretty and feminine, yet abstains from being too girly. Eva Mendes and Rose Byrne wore two dresses from his Fall 2011 Collection this week.

Damages actress, Rose Byrne is striking in a fuchsia stretch wool dress with black straps and leather belt. She gets the colour-blocking trend correct with the addition of a red clutch bag and red, black and white peep toes. Love this look from the heavy fringe to the Christian Louboutin heels.

Eva Mendes chose a strapless white overlay dress with sheer pleating on the bodice. The frock features a black bandeau inset and signature leather waistband. Eva accessorized with a large black clutch and chunky Casadei pumps.

Oscar Party Dresses

Red Carpet Fashion
at the Oscar Parties 2011

Besides for just the Oscars, there were many pre-parties and after parties held in Hollywood to celebrate the illustrious awards show. These are some of the dresses and colour trends worn by rising stars and silver screen sirens alike.

Blue

Rosario Dawson wears a bright blue wrap sequin dress with high slit by Diane von Furstenberg. Her shoes are by Brian Atwood. Kim Kardashian looks lovely in a strapless and fitted dark navy gown by J Mendel. Lea Michele glitters in blue sequins in this 70's inspired high-neck, long-sleeved dress by Roberto Cavalli. Glee's Dianna Argon wears a simple and chique chiffon navy dress with plunging neckline by J Mendel. Her peep-toe pumps are by Salvatore Ferragamo. Juliette Lewis is dressed in a midnight blue Georges Hobeika Couture gown with strapless sweetheart neckline.

Grey

Kerry Washington wears a liquid silver Escada gown with a Jimmy Choo clutch. Vanessa Hudgens looks amazing in this sparkly little number by Marchesa. I'm not too sure about the choice of sandals, which are by Sergio Rossi. Emma Robert's grey chiffon sequined gown is by Jenny Packham with clutch by Kelly Locke. Model and actress Brooklyn Decker looks beautiful in this romantic ruffle gown by Joy Cioci. I'm not so fond of Heidi Klum's mirrored dress by Julien Macdonald. She wears Christian Louboutin 'Daffodil Strauss' shoes with it.

Black 

Kate Beckinsale looks elegant in a long-sleeved black sequined gown by Julien Macdonald. Eva Mendes wears a black dress with full tulle skirt by Donna Karan and shoes by Casadei. Abbie Cornish looks stunning in a black beaded gown by Elie Saab. Alice in Wonderland actress Mia Wasikowska wears a charming guipure lace dress with cap-sleeves by Stella McCartney and peep-toes by Brian Atwood. The sultry Sofia Vergara wears a corset dress with lace panels by Zuhair Murad.

 Red 

Red dresses ruled on and off the Oscar carpet. Ginnifer Goodwin dons a quirky red satin dress with black lace detail by Erdem. Salut to Selena Gomez who chose this gorgeous Grecian-inspired dress by Dolce & Gabbana. I adore the red and pink dress worn by Zoe Saldana. The two-tone layered dress is by Prabal Gurung, with tassel bag by Louis Vuitton and pink metallic heels by Ferragamo. Anna Paquin wears a Monique Lhuillier dress with laser-cut detail on the skirt. Are she and Ginnifer wearing the same Brian Atwood 'Donna' pumps? Anna Kendrick wears a strapless mini by Marchesa with huge bow and ruffles. She paired it with black bag and heels by Christian Louboutin.

White 

Spanish actress Paz Vega wears a loose tie-waist top and full ruffled skirt by Giambattista Valli. Nicole Richie is dressed by Halston in a long-sleeve, high-slit dress with cut-out detail. Her silver python sandals are by Christian Louboutin. 90210's Jessica Lowndes wears an off-white mini with gold embroidery on the bodice. Charlize Theron is glamourous in a draped Atelier Versace gown with a Swarovski crystal design at the waist. I don't like the shape on Hayden Panettiere's Luca Luca dress, which has a high slit and gold detailing on the bodice.

Gold

Gwyneth Paltrow wears a one-shoulder jersey dress with crystal beading by Michael Kors. Taylor Swift dazzles in a strapless beaded mini by Zuhair Murad. She matched the dress with a gold clutch and sandals by Jimmy Choo. Ashley Tisdale is stylish in an antique lace asymmetrical gown by Jenny Packham. Jessica Biel glistens in a gold beaded gown by Atelier Versace. Model Rosie Huntington-Whiteley wears a strapless nude-toned gown by Valentino Couture. The 'Jigsaw' sandals are by Jimmy Choo.