GOLD IN THE AIR OF SUMMER

I don't usually discuss things such as events in fashion, collections, models etc, but I thought it might be interesting to start doing that a little bit (And maybe some architecture stuff thrown in as well) now I'm just testing the waters a bit here, so we'll see how it goes the next while haha. Normally I tend to not get that excited about Resort or Pre-Fall but lately these in-between collections have captivated me a lot more than the main collections. I have found that while still retaining a commercial appeal, many designers are showing collections that are a lot more directional, and special in their own rights as opposed to merely a transition. There is something that I like in the concise vision of 15-30 looks as opposed to 60+ looks that are becoming the norm otherwise. I also enjoy how many resort and pre-fall collections are presented in a look-book style that have a more editorial approach (I think it tells the story of the clothes better when you can't see the actual runway show). Below are some of my favorite looks:

VALENTINO:

Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pier Paolo Piccioli are actually starting to step up their game and not suck quite so bad. I actually thought this was a lovely collection, and it was nice to see them avoid gimmicks like the overt sexuality, studding and really questionable appliques. I thought this attempt was a bit more in line with what Alessandra Facchinetti was presenting at Valentino during her tragically short time there. I really hope for the sake of this storied house that Maria and Pier keep pulling off collections like this (it gives me some hope for their next couture collection also)


BALENCIAGA:Although I was somewhat disappointed with Balenicaga, the archival looks as well as some of the color-blocking really grabbed my attention. The dress is a fresh take on a Balenciaga signature and the colors are spot on.

GIVENCHY:

It was really refreshing to see Ricardo Tisci move Givenchy in a new direction without losing any of the signature he brings to the label. I felt like he getting a little one-note with his leopard print and lace. Experiments with transparent layers were extremely lust-worthy, and I am DYING over the armadillo print. I also love that the looks were shot on the street (the taxi just makes the image so next level imho)

CÉLINE:

Phoebe Philo KILLED IT at Céline. She always manages to move the brand forward with such a distinct ideal while making minimalist clothing that is never boring and always seems fresh and exciting. I want everything she showed (It may be weird but I would actually wear like a lot of stuff she showed haha). The statement coat came in a multitude of textures and styles. Denim on Denim patchwork really spoke to me as well (being a cowboy at heart I love anything and everything denim) I kind of need those patchwork camouflage pieces yesterday, so ingenious, definitely my favorite show so far.

LOUIS VUITTON:

Louis Vuitton balaclava. THAT'S ALL.

PROENZA SCHOULER:

Jack and Lazaro were all about the statement knits for pre-fall. They always manage to capture that cool girl vibe just perfectly (something Alexander Wang has been failing to do in recent shows) And I'm loving the perfect mixing of prints and kind of want the sweater on the right as a blanket.

all images from style.com