Celebrating the talents of novel designers has always been a stake within the fashion industry. Fortunately, Gen Art discovered a creative and profound way to collaborate the present with the past. “The New Garde”, presented by Plastics Make it Possible; displayed the architecture behind the fashionable architects we’ve come to learn and love.
Plastics Make it Possible and encouraged the possibility of fashionable education. Interesting facts were smartly placed throughout the venue, so you never lost sight of what brought us together in the first place. Facts such as “Plastic being able to form the foundation of many of the most dynamic, functional and fabulous fabrics in use in fashion today”. (Plastic Makes it Possible)
Lycra, lace, sequins, organza, and taffeta are all plastic-based materials. According to a (PMP) chart, in the early 40’s era, plastic fibers replaced silk in tulle. Those lovely bullet bras Madonna and now Lady Gaga are donning, were formed by plastic coning. From Gogo boots in the 60’s to your present-day Chanel frames, plastic will always be a staple within the world of fashion.
Molly Sims was the evening’s host for the night and contributed a few words to guests as well as the four honored designers.
NOMIA
Designer Yara Flinn created a collection that was bold with subtle details. Simple frocks paired with armored shouldering, netted black combat booting, cut-outs, and clean silhouettes, praised the successful notion of simplicity. A cohesive line mirroring edge and empowerment embodied this presentation. I was instantly drawn to the snow-white one-shoulder mini dress with a silver cuff off the neckline. This piece read sexy and daring, yet believable.
WES FELD
The event was romanticized and enchanted by the beautiful creations presented. Winner of Gen Art’s design contest and season fives Project Runway participants; Daniel Field and Wesley Nault collaborated to form this truly captivating collection from their Wes Feld brand. Although this intimate presentation ranged from asymmetrical body suits to floor-length gowns, every piece complemented the other. Tiering and ruffles were major element in this collection. Definite references to water and nature were evident through the colors and the demarcated use of organza and taffeta (both plastic based). The wooden crafted platforms added another component of fantasy. It was no surprise that once you stopped by the presentation to take a glance, it lasted into a full-on viewing.
GAR-DE
The chic –efficacy created by these young designers and artists, proved extremely successful for this collection. Trendy practicality reared its beautiful face through Gar-de’s presentation. Using the suggested elements of menswear to build stability within womenswear has been done, but not quite like this. An example of this association would have to be the amazing brown leather motorcycle jacket with matching mini shorts. The fabric was a masculine plaid print with leather patchwork shorts. However, the cut and fit were created for a woman. The epitome of power dressing shined through this collection, donning the inner Indiana Jones in all women!
SOPHOMORE
A full contemporary line was established from a popular t-shirt buzz; after Chrissie Miller and Madeline von Froomer joined forces to create Sophomore. This casually youthful men and womenswear brand understood comfort without conforming. Loose tees with bold wording such as “New” or “Locals Only”, relaxed denim, a-line, and fitted skirt and tanks, defined this line as carefree and old-world New York. With such a lively and vivid presentation, I saw the clothes come to life.
As the night went on guests enjoyed their Cosmo-Polymer cocktails provided by Patron and were obviously visually stimulated, by the various showcases. What a night to start fashion week right? Check out more photos below and HERE
CariDee English
Kenley Collins
Derek Warburton
Molly Sims
Filming of MTV’s “The City”
