Tag Archives: apparel

Vicente Villarin Spring 2009

September 11, 2008 Glossy

Vicente Villarin made its debut runway presentation today at the House of Bumble. For Spring 2009, Designer Joanne Cordero Reyes offered a collection of ethereal dresses, aptly named “Light Against Sky”.

It was a cool combination of chiffon and rock as undulating ruffles and pleats carried its own beat. Cathedral elements such as vivid stained glass windows and marble cream pillars were transformed into feminine silhouettes. Reyes looked to bring “pure, modern elegance” by using romantic textures and architectural influences. Linen/cotton jackets featuring charming shoulder details brought flying buttresses to mind while statuesque forms illuminated an airy and soft serenity. My favorite was a gown with appliqué made to look like rose glass shards sprinkling over the landscape of the fabric. Details were not to be overlooked, with silver zippers and gold accented shoes as finishing touches.

I am truly excited to discover another contemporary Asian designer. Reyes is Filipino American and takes her greatest inspiration from her grandfather, Vicente Villarin Cordero, who was a composer. Reyes’ highly flirty, but incredibly sophisticated line is definitely something to include in your closet and look out for on red carpets!

– Tiffany Chang

fashion

Harlan Bel Spring 2009

September 11, 2008 Glossy

I very much looked forward to Harlan Bel’s Spring 2009 show after learning that designer Brandy Lunsford draws inspiration from equestrian themes. Lunsford’s collections always feature tailored, functional pieces that convey “cool confidence and carefree beauty”.

There was something very dignified and noble in Lunsford’s presentation. Classic black and white formed the foundation of the collection, especially in the form of leather and silk. Pleasant jewel tones of turquoise, peridot, and amethyst emblazoned the sleek palette.

Crisp, clean pieces were anything but plain when embellished with canvas and suede suspender-like straps, tiered pleats, and sharp cut-outs. The plethora of short shorts, cropped tees, and strapless dresses were youthful and sexy!

I was absolutely fixated at the frizzy, crimped ponytails swinging back and forth – the wrapped black leather added a touch of high class. The ebony platform heels really brought to mind dainty, galloping hooves. The most amusing accessory was the sophisticated, lady-like eyewear.

-Tiffany Chang

fashion

Thuy

September 8, 2008 Glossy

Thuy- Need another dose of happy? Well, Thuy will certainly deliver. For Spring’09 the designer showed a hodgepodge of sunbathed separates. It was evident that this collection was aiming to provide a quotient of cheeky ease. Charmeuse mini shorts cuffed in patent leather, shrunken blazers and flirty dresses are sure to make an impression this spring. A Slouchy car coat in bright orange and another in a salt and pepper with shoulder detail were interesting albeit random. This collection is best left to the adeptly fashionable tween set, who are bested prepared to make use of the plethora of pieces that can be layered and mixed for girly glam.

It may soon be time to dawn our new winter coats but for the moment it’s still warm enough to plan next summer’s wardrobe!

A. Coelho

fashion

Twinkle By Wenlan Spring 2009

September 8, 2008 Glossy

Twinkle by Wenlan’s Spring 2009 collection takes inspiration from 1960s iconic actress Jean Seberg. Indeed, designer Wenlan Chia infused old Hollywood glamour in a whimsical and ultra-feminine interpretation of Seberg’s “school girl charm”.

There were vintage-inspired prints galore, including splattered, sugared diamonds, cross-stitch sparrow and blossom motifs, and even an animal print suggestive of a spotted Dalmatian coat. Creamy hues of terracotta, lemon yellow, and mint green brought an upbeat, bohemian highlight. Bouncy georgette, satin chiffon, and dry voile layered sweetly over classic, masculine textures of houndstooth and oxford.

Suits were trimmed down to double-breasted strapless dresses and pleated bustiers. Wide belts cinched the look together. A structured, beehive-style updo and stacks of fabric-covered bangles added an alluring touch to the free-spirited collection.

Always noteworthy is Twinkle’s signature knitwear, which took a daintier approach this season. Cotton/cashmere loosely draped, racerback halters and dolman-sleeved sweater dresses provided a luxurious feel to the trim silhouettes.

fashion

Rock and Republic Shows Brilliant Color

September 7, 2008 Glossy

Models Chanel Iman, Du Juan, Photo By Stevyn Llewellyn

Chocolate. Amber. Cocoa. Blush. Color ruled the Rock and Republic runway! I should point out that the Rock and Republic Spring Collection was restrained to a palette of black and white. The models however, were every color of the rainbow. It was the best use of color I have seen in seasons!
The call to arms for diversity has been heralded by the people at Rock and Republic. For the Spring Collection a spectrum of beauties ranging from the mocha dazzler Chanel Iman (who opened the show) to Tawny skinned Dujan strutted down the glossy white catwalk. After much debate in the industry about the lack of diversity on the runway, it was encouraging to see the fruits of that dialogue move casting in a more progressive direction. The casting felt intentional but not forced. Face it, models are beautiful people. But more often then not when it comes to minority beauty we have seen only select portraits of that beauty: an ebony African model with her hair cropped short or a stick straight-raven haired, Asian model. There are nuances within minority beauty and they were on full display at last night show. One model after the next- another refreshing representation of diverse beauty. Now for the day when a line-up like this is run- of-the-mill.
Rock and Republic can always be counted of for a good time! The house lights go down. The speakers start pumping sexy remixes; music video lights descend from the rafters and its showtime! For those who secretly dream of being a rock star this collection is one stop shopping. Justin may have brought sexy back but Rock and Republic is certainly keeping it alive! The Spring ’09 collection lack none of the illustrious rock star wear we have come to expect. Leather, black and white glazed lean jeans and lots of skin bearing tops sailed down the runway. Bomber jackets revisited: this time think slick- no more bulk it’s all streamlined silhouettes (for the guys and the ladies alike). This is collection is not for the faint of heart so strut with caution.

– Alexander Coelho