New York Fashion Week

The big apple was ablaze all week with fashionable flutter as the trend forward and style savvy poured into the city.

NEW YORK: Its fashion week season and New York as always has kicked off the month-long circuit with a bang. With the paparazzi swarming around the Lincoln Centre, the new prestigious home of New York Fashion Week, to get the perfect “money shots’ of the fashion elite, I couldn’t think of a more fabulous start to this decadent month. New York is one of the most prestigious and well known Fashion Week Circuits in the world. From its choice of legendary designers to bright young newcomers; here is a guide to take you through what I saw and loved.

Donna Karen

Another strong and much loved fashion giant who yet again proved her worth is Donna Karen. Her fall collection was named Pearls of Wisdom was an unusual look for a woman who normally has dressed her models in boho-glam jewllery. The models took to the runway in a ladylike fashion, each one sporting a Grace Kelly inspired top knot. The collection showcases the occasional pair of trousers but mainly focused on coats, dresses and elegant skirt suits. Some models appeared clasping frame bags and the high-light of the show for me were the bold fur wrap coats.

Diane Von Furstenberg

The queen of New York’s fashion reigned supreme once again with a collection titled  American Legends. Diane Von Furstenberg’s patriotic collection stuck to its glamorous roots and gave us fringed suede boots, wide rimmed hats and sequined gowns which had all of us making mental notes to save up those pennies for one of these glorious numbers. However, wall flowers beware if you don’t wish to be the centre of attention then steer clear of Diane’s fabulously eccentric prints. Her bright collection paired together some of the most beautiful autumn hues.

Prabal Gurung

One of my favourite shows was Prabal Gurung. Nepalese designer has been helping young Hollywood fashionistas to achieve red carpet glamour in show stopping yet age appropriate pieces. As I entered I saw Anna Wintour coming out from back stage with a smile. I knew then this collection was going to be impressive if it had the first lady of fashion’s seal of approval and as expected it did not disappoint. His first look was a full-skirted party dress worn by famous model Karlie Kloss and this set the mood of what we were going to be receiving.

Tibi

For the ultimate in ready-to-wear, one can look no further than the must-have brand, New York based Tibi.  Most of the looks could frankly walk straight off the runway and into our winter wardrobes. The collection had a strong 90s theme running through it especially with its hot pink beanies and arm warmers. The pieces were adorned with fine detailing that didn’t meet the eye at first, but were clearly shown in the finale piece, a voluminous skirt which showcased one of the most beautiful prints I have ever laid eyes on.

Michael kors

Michael Kors marked his 30th year in the industry with a collection that seems to encompass some of his “greatest hits”. With a front row that consisted of Michael Douglas and Catherine Zeta Jones this was definitely a high-lighting show at the New York fashion Week. His collection paired luxe tailoring with exquisite draping. The collection showcased many a charcoal flannel jacket and straight legged trousers but also embraced several red carpet numbers.  His sleek collection showcased lots of wardrobe essentials for your Autumn Winter style.

Marc Jacobs

New York plays home to some of the biggest and most established designers in the industry. But some of these designers stood out more than others this season. Marc Jacobs was once again at the forefront of what we will be seeing this Autumn Winter. He defines what looks will fly off the racks and dictates trends followed by millions with each perfectly crafted piece in his collection so ladies, prepare yourself for a lot of polka dots and a good deal of latex and lace.

Rag & Bone

The ultra-hip design duo behind cult label, Rag & Bone gave us traditional style staples including motorcycle chic, Scottish tartan, technical fabrics and preppy casual, and brought them up to date with their own unique twist. An extremely modern and wearable collection made up of streamlined separates, tomboyish trousers and injections of eye-catching checks in delicious autumnal hues that will be top of every low-key fashionista’s wish list.

Jason Wu

He’s Michelle Obama’s favourite designer and if that doesn’t convince you Jason Wu is one to watch, then his divine Autumn/ Winter 2011 collection certainly will.

In a palette of predominantly greys and neutrals, Jason Wu still wowed the crowds, with his masterful tailoring, use of lace, embroidery and chiffon.

Trends to watch out for next season…



Prints are big news this season and definitely worth investing in as judging from what I’ve spotted on the runways in New York.

Colour is back for Spring/Summer 2011 and come fall it will be given an autumnal update with burnt orange, deep greens, royal blue and sizzling reds.  Autumn Hues are going to be taking over your winter blues.

Lady-like chic; this autumn we’re all going to be channeling “Mad Men” in elegant skirt suits and sweet chiffon blouses.

Glamour was the name of the game at the likes of Rebecca Minkoff, Jenny Packham and Donna Karan. Unleash your inner red carpet goddess in Autumn/Winter 2011s most show stopping dresses.

Summer may be just around the corner, we’ll have barely managed to shed our winter coats before we’re longing to wrap up once again in next seasons delights.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 20^th, 2011.