During Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in New York, Naeem Khan delivered a richly detailed, heavily embellished collection for fall 2010. Our senses were filled with dazzling jewels, shimmering golds, and heavily sequined dresses reflecting the light around the models as they sauntered down the runway to a rock and roll soundtrack. The collection was heavy with elegant brocades, fur trimmed motorcycle vests, and feathered skirts. With Michelle Obama wearing his gowns, we can imagine we will be seeing a quite a bit more of Mr. Khan. Photos and video by Stevyn Llewellyn.
Tia Cibani, the creative powerhouse behind the Ports 1961 label brings Modern Glossy a preview of her spring 2011 collection. Heavy use of black and white, with electric hues dominate the line. Inspired by Patti Smith, the clothing exuded feeling of individualism, glamor and rock and roll. The silhouettes were structural yet wearable. Cibani plays with extremes in fashion, and always can channel inspiration into something unique, practical and special for the modern woman she celebrates.
Doucette Duvall practices environmental and social responsibility by manufacturing their whole collection in New York City. The designers use pre-existing trim and fabric and ship only in recycled boxes. Each collection also features a “little green dress” to honor their commitment to Mother Earth. Doucette Duvall is distributed in specialty boutiques in the United States and Abroad. Designers Stephanie Doucette and Annabet Duvall formed their clothing line in 2005. As participants in Showroom New York, they are also a part of the cause to save New York’s historic Garment District. Modern Glossy was pleased to have an interview with Stephanie Doucette at Showroom New York. Stephanie shows us key pieces from their collection. Visit them here.
Designer Marcy Clark from the brand Shauntelé , is interviewed by Modern Glossy’s own Maria Giannakakis. Her collection is described as Alluring and flattering, creating a sophisticated balance between elegance and femininity. Her newest line is inspired by the artist Henri Rousseau, and Miss Josephine Baker. Shauntelé has tailored Jessica Simpson and Judy Reyes, and recently participated in the design competition Style Wars. She is a part of our ongoing series on Showroom New York, the collective dedicated to maintaining the Garment District in New York. Watch the exclusive interview filmed by Stevyn Llewellyn below.
Models Renee Gee, Katherine Chan, and Rebecca Zhou in Olive Wu • Photos by Stevyn Llewellyn
Modern Glossy had the pleasure of Interviewing designer, Olive Wu after her presentation at NYU’s Expo 2010 fashion show.
Your palette for the fall 2010 season is primarily a romantic mixture of muted and shimmering dark colors, what type of fabrics did you use to achieve this effect?
OW: It’s a mixture of all different kinds of fabrics in wovens & knits, such as jacquard, tulle, wool twill, lace, and some novelties. I combined them together to create the textured & shimmering effect I was looking for. It’s fun to play with hard and soft textures at the same time.
You use texture in this collection, integrated with layering. What type of embellishments did you use on the jacket and skirt? Also, We also noticed that some of the pieces integrated intentional tears in the knits. What influenced this approach of texture?
OW: I used buttons as decoration on skirt and jacket; they’re strategically placed on the garments. Those buttons are mainly vintage military buttons. Rhinestones & pearls are also thrown in to give some varieties.
I also liked the challenge of maintaining elegance through seemingly broken, torn knits- the disruptive tone is softened and balanced by the light, transparent tulle. This design concept is somewhat a reflection of modern life – finding order and integrity in chaos.
What influenced the collection as a whole?
OW: Initially I wasn’t sure what the theme should be, but I knew I wanted to present the whole collection in a black color palette, so I picked various textures in shades of black. Then I had all these exquisite antique buttons to utilize, and they go against black beautifully.
In the making process, I started draping and piecing fabrics together. I thought I had the textures I desired, but decided something was still missing. That’s where the tulle came in. It gives dimension.
In terms of style, I wanted to stick to classic silhouettes, so I did the puff skirt, cocktail minidress, long sleeve tee… etc.
With all the above elements combined, this collection came to be military meets royalty meets rock-n-roll with a touch of romanticism. It’s extravagant minimalism.
What type of woman do you design for?
OW: She is chic and glamorous. She’s sassy but not showy. She is classic but certainly not boring at all. She likes subtlety, but doesn’t mind to have fancy accent on her outfits. Her inner beauty shines through on the exterior. She’s one of a kind and just a lot of fun!
You work at Ralph Lauren as well. Does the Ralph Lauren aesthetic influence your work in any way?
OW: Well, yes and no. I learn to love and appreciate “authenticity” at Polo Ralph Lauren. He has classic styles, and he can make just about anything into his American life style.
I have a different take on my own designs. I want people to feel every piece is distinctive and it represents their individuality. I want people to know each garment is thoughtfully made. I’d like to be more of an artist than a designer.
As a creative person, how do you find your inspiration?
OW: I am always collecting things or tears I like… be it a picture of beautiful scenery, a cute crafty object, a cool graphic design, a special vintage handbag or button, or just a beautiful piece of fabric… Inspirations come from everyday life. I get inspired by art, music, fashion, culture, places and people. Different ways of thinking and concept give me ideas as well. My motto is to “never stop learning”.
OW: My goal is to participate in more runway shows and eventually establish my own label. I hope to gain more support from people who like my designs and have the opportunity to sell them at department stores and specialty boutiques. I am collaborating with talented people to make it happen. And I am also networking to find business savvy people to help me to launch the line. Still a long way to go but one step at a time.
Models Chelsea Ignagni, Michelle Marques, and Pauline Ma in Olive Wu • Photos by Stevyn Llewellyn
Designer Marcy Clark from the brand 
Modern Glossy had the pleasure of Interviewing designer, Olive Wu after her presentation at NYU’s Expo 2010 fashion show.