A Declaration of Spring
Statement pieces steal the shows
Part II
Designer at right: Georges Chakra
Creativity ruled the runways at New York’s spring Fashion Week. Kooky catwalk turns were inevitable, but the real buzz swirled around delicious fabrics delivered in sherbets and prints and neutrals and metallics — beautiful pieces you could imagine women in the Triangle actually wearing.
Right-now outfits are cheerful and fluttery, with a touch of sophistication. We can be flirts in shimmery sheaths, romantics in voluminous gowns, downtowners in boho blazers, girlfriends in boldly lined shirts, even club ladies in cinched ensembles.
Part 1 of Carolina Woman’s spring 2010 fashion report, which ran in the March issue, explored fresh trends with an ultra-femme snap: belts, black and white, ruffles, and stripes. This month, we focus on more glam ideas: jackets, prints, color, neutrals, metallics and asymmetry.
Neutrals
These glad rags don’t have color but they do have pop. Dressed up or dressed down, turned out in all shapes, lengths and textures, chic neutrals can be languid and ethereal or polished and confident.
Designers from left to right: Dennis Basso, Tadashi Shoji, Toni Maticevski
Color
It’s not just a splash of color — it’s a tsunami. Sun-drenched hues bring strong surf ‘n sand references to spring’s standout looks.
Designers from left to right: Venexiana, Pamella Roland, Tiffany Amber
Jackets
These sleek coverups are cropped at the waist, the sleeves or both. Who said you have to sacrifice the wearing of cute jackets just because it’s hot in the Triangle?
Designers from left to right: Michelle Smith, Thuy, Charlotte Ronson
Prints
The latest spin from the catwalk is the hip print, a novel blend of warm and cool tones, covering every inch of fabric.
Designers from left to right: BCBG Max Azria, Mara Hoffman, DKNY
Asymmetry
The drama of single-shoulder designs and other one-sided touches produce figure-flattering effects.
Designers from left to right: BCBG Max Azria, Carlos Miele, Ports 1961
Metallics
Whether an entire outfit or just one piece, whether upscaled or downscaled, these fabrics shine with the tones and patina of metal.
Designers from left to right: Andy & Debb, Monarchy, Nicole Miller
All photos courtesy Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week.