Vivienne Westwood’s runway collections are always an interesting amalgamation of showmanship, fashion, and jarring makeup: coming together in a blend that only Dame Viv can pull off. Her latest designs for Fall are no exception, taking inspiration from times long ago, specifically the years when European Crusaders returned to their homeland after fighting their way through the Arab world. The influence is palpable in woven capes, pigtail braids accenting the models’ manes, purposefully destructed garments, and splashes of fur. Naturally, the collection gives way to more functional wares with loads of menswear-inspired suiting and the brand’s dresses that always seem to be red carpet favorites season after season.
The medieval-inspired looks are not the most wearable, but are certainly the most artistic. Knit graphic sweaters layered over asymmetric hem skirts, knee-high tights, and platform booties: Westwood’s true fans will appreciate these ensembles though you won’t see things of this ilk being redone by a fast fashion brand for the season.
Suiting is a strong focus in strong-shouldered pinstripe suits that are a nod to the power looks of the ’80s, as well as some very austere (and sometimes matronly) blazer-skirt combinations that scream modesty.
Westwood shows a number of outerwear silhouettes from ankle-length capes to an asymmetric-zip bomber jacket with a polka dot-lined fringe hem.
Knits are oversized with a handmade and homespun feel.
There are a number of simple and chic dresses on display that will translate for a number of modern-day women; even those who do not normally gravitate toward the brand’s eccentric designs. A breath of fresh air sweeps through the autumnal offerings with a selection of LWDs, showing that stylish women wear white year-round.
Halle Berry, Eva Longoria, and Rita Ora have all worn the brand’s gowns in the past few months and they will certainly have a few pieces to play with here. My favorite look is a gold keyhole detailed chainmail-esque gown with an unfinished hem: a sure Best Dressed bet with a sky-high pair of Kirkwoods and pin-up girl waves.
Any looks catch your eye?
Images: Style.com
March 5, 2013 12:39 am
Amazing. Couldnt see my self wearing most of it but still amazing. Loving the lwd’s.
March 5, 2013 1:18 am
I just died…. This show is amazing, the shapes, fabric, color, drama, textures… all were just killer. Best thus far… Vivienne Westwood’s SICK!!!
March 5, 2013 3:55 am
Nahhhh. Dont like them.
March 5, 2013 6:21 am
love it!
March 5, 2013 8:12 am
WOW! Loving ALL the dresses especially.
March 5, 2013 10:26 am
Wonderful!
March 5, 2013 10:39 am
Hits and misses for me
March 5, 2013 10:49 am
Fabulous !
March 5, 2013 4:16 pm
What.
March 5, 2013 11:57 pm
They forgot to blend the makeup