For others, Fashion Week likely started later in the week during the 1st week in September. But my journey began on Sept 2nd! And from chic womenswear presentations to varied menswear collections I must say, there was no better way to kick off my time with NYFW!!
For these first 2 straight days I was exposed to a vast array of fashion week presentations – from emerging talent with designers such as Daniel Silverstain – Brazil in the 1960s comes to llfe — and Wenqi Wu – a recent Parsons grad’s take on Russian Constructivism — ,
**Daniel Silverstain — looked to famous influential Brazilian architects Oscar Niemeyer and Roberto Burle Marx for his spring 2015 collection. He interpreted the celebratory theme through a mix of innovative fabric techniques and unexpected texture mixes, like 3-d prints with beading, digital prints on micro-fiber, and luxurious silk crepe de chine or jacquard next to futuristic metallic leather. The NY-based Israeli designer also incorporated neoprene to elevate the sportswear-trend aesthetic.**
Wenqi Wu
**Inspired by the 1920’s Russian Constructivism movement of applying modern design techniques to functional and utilitarian clothing, each individual outfit within the collection bared masculine tailoring with an air of femininity, which was infused through bold colors and digital prints.**
Continuing onto that of brands I was 1st being introduced to, such as Catherine Litke – an eco-friendly brand going into its 3rd season and now expanding with accessories! For spring, she worked with natural fabrics in the form of quilted plaids and patchworks. Accessories included espadrilles and sandals in bright patterns with biodegradable soles and straw totes in a neutral palette of black and tan.
Other designers and/or brands opted for their own takes with NYFW, such as pas de calais’ practical in-store presentation or Maison Jules for Macy’s with their F/W 2014 showcase rather than presenting for S/S 2015.
pas de Calais — Designer Yukari Suda used a handmade Japanese indigo dip-dye technique throughout her spring collection. Named the “Gathering,” the lineup was inspired by family and friends gathered at the table. So, the shapes were all relaxed and easy, ranging from linen tops to silky striped dresses.
Of course it was great to be able to take part in exclusive NYFW kick-off parties, such as Flaunt Magazine’s Distress Issue Cover Party, featuring Vanessa Hudgens on the cover, with partnerships from Siwy Denim and Brian Lichtenberg, which was held at Gilded Lily.
But the main event for these 1st 2 days of my early start to NYFW had to be NYMD, which encompassed a wide variety of dynamic menswear brands – 10 to be exact! NYMD was held at Industria Superstudios and was presented by Cadillac.
David Hart — Goin’ bananas for Palm Springs! Full feature here!
Gents — the infusion of boxing & Formula 1 racing. Full feature here!
J. Lindeberg — Head designer Jessy Heuvelink, continues to uphold the label’s core “fashion meets function” values as well as its soft spot for denim, leather, tailoring and a slimmer silhouette. Looking ahead to Spring 2015, “Biotopia”, those continuing themes make a strong showing with a lighter edge thanks to subtle florals, embroidered fabrics and Summer weight fabrics.
Lucio Castro — a “Soviet Summer.” Full feature here!
Stephen F. — menswear take for womens’ apparel.
Carlos Campos — embracing a sportier style, vibe, & edge.
WRK — is off to the races! Literal prints such as oil spills and tire marks offered graphic stimulation, coupled with pops of green and blue from the mostly neutral palette.
Antonio Azzuolo — showcasing menswear & looks for women.
Bespoken — dynamic mixtures of street & formalwear.
Original Penguin — welcome to “Magic City”! Full Feature here!!
Loving #NYFW thus far!!
