www.womanthismonth.com 23 April 2014 FASHION WTM in New York The Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week 2014 definitely heated up New York City despite the arctic weather and bout of snowstorms. Dedicated fashionistas braved the blizzard to attend the spectacular shows. February 8, 10am Lacoste at The Theatre The week started off right with a high-energy runway performance by models showcasing Lacoste’s Autumn/Winter 2014 collection. Portuguese designer Felipe Oliveira Baptista — who was previously a designer for household brands, such as MaxMara, Christophe Lemaire, and Cerruti — helped support New York Fashion Week’s reputation as the biggest festival in the city. Celebrities such as The Jonas Brothers lined the front row to view the abstract portraitesque clothing. The collection was inspired by a series of images the creative director recreated following his visit to the Basque region in France. Centred upon the effortless and timeless elegance of Chantaco, a golf course built in the late 1920’s by Rene Lacoste’s father-inlaw, Baptista integrated its relaxed feel to this year’s urban collection. The models’ long, lean frames beautifully held the wardrobe of oversized coats, dark sweatshirts, hooded jackets and sporty jacket pantsuits. February 13, 11am Ralph Lauren at St John’s Centre Studios New York Fashion Week’s final day included a bevy of beautiful designer pieces, proving that the best is always saved for last. With yet another blizzard having engulfed the city the previous night, I ploughed on (literally) through the harsh sleet to enter the sneakily hidden studio show location in Downtown New York. The audience was in for a treat as Ralph Lauren showcased not one, but two autumn/ winter 2014 collections. The inside of the studio was adorned with ornately tiered chandeliers and cream side benches with a flawless silk white sheet that draped over the runway. As the lights dimmed, an aura of anticipation invaded the room. The show was divided into two distinct parts — the new Polo Casual Collection for women and the more formal Ralph Lauren Collection. Aimed towards younger females, a preppy bohemian chic theme was embedded with paisley and floral prints, vibrant colours, laidback chequered shirts and tweed cardigans. Other styles included the cowgirl theme, consisting of fringed jackets and geometric south-western patterns. The Ralph Lauren collection incorporated modern glamorous wear. Models donned sleek chequered pants, a mix of ruffle and pin skirts, striped suits and diva-esque fur coats. Cashmere sweaters, oversized trench coats and chunky turtleneck necklaces all promoted the “keep warm, chic and carry on” theme. The climax of the show was a glimpse at slinky evening gowns that effortlessly hung off the models silhouettes in pink, ivory and pearly grey hues. Needless to say, Ralph Lauren received a standing ovation from all members in attendance. February 13, 5pm Art Hearts Fashion at The Theatre The Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week’s Closing Show did not disappoint. The facetious comment that fashion does have a heart perfectly summed up the artistic cultural display of established and upcoming designers. Art Hearts Fashion was presented in collaboration with AIDS Healthcare Foundation. A perfect link between fashion and philanthropy was created as the Italian style of FTL Moda was presented in a grandiose way. The show highlighted how the disease is still prevalent globally as well as embedded within the fabric of every industry. My personal favourite pieces from the show included Kokler’s offering of a crisp leather jacket draped over silk leather pants, and Silkskin’s collection that introduced an edgy look of motorcycle jackets, dark trench coats and leather driving gloves — evoking a true feeling of girl power. by GIANNE MIDDLETON
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