From Runway to Reality: Taking Inspiration from NYFW
As the sun sets on Spring 2017 New York Fashion Week, the last eight days have shown us the lengths to which designers will go to stay relevant in an ever-changing fashion environment. The ascent of social media, the rise of fast fashion, and elevated consumer expectations have drastically changed the traditional Fashion Week landscape. High-end designers like Tom Ford and Michael Kors are experimenting with a “see now / buy now” approach so customers can purchase pieces immediately after they are shown on the runway.
Most of us though, don’t plan on purchasing runway fashion. While many would agree that clothing shown on the runway is beautiful, it often doesn’t translate into our reality. We can, though, take inspiration from what we admire on the runway and use it to influence how we build our wardrobe to best fit our lifestyle. Prints and solids, lace and ruffles, cut-outs and slashes; it was all shown and celebrated. I’ve taken inspiration from some of my favorite Spring 2017 runway looks from designers that favor a minimalist approach to dressing, and translated them into wearable and affordable options, all of which are available at Kiskadee.
Jumpsuits continue to trend into next spring, as evidenced by the number that were on the runway this past week. I love a good jumpsuit, but need to pay extra attention to the cut as curves and jumpsuits can be a tricky match. Both Brandon Maxwell (above, left), stylist to Lady Gaga turned designer, and the design duo Cushnie et Ochs, known for their minimal and clean approach, showed jumpsuits with a fitted top and wider bottom. Pocket placement, a plunging neckline and a slightly shorter hem add some interest to these pieces, but really it’s about a clean, chic look.
This Laundry jumpsuit gives a similar feel. Fitted on top and wider on the bottom, the front draping detail, cropped leg, and pockets give it just enough interest. This versatile jumpsuit would look just as good on a straighter body shape, as the cut is so flattering. Paired with block suede heels and a simple gold choker this look is modern minimalism at its best. For a dressier option consider a pair of gold ankle wrap stiletto sandals. For something slightly more conservative, consider throwing a black moto jacket or long black blazer over your shoulders.
The combination of black and white is spotted on the runway often, regardless of the season, and Spring 2017 is no exception. Though often shown as a print, I’m drawn to black and white color-blocking, as I think the effect is both cleaner and more striking. Cushnie et Ochs (above, left) showed several black and white color blocked evening slip dresses, while Tom Ford, known for his deliberately sexy yet elegant aesthetic, showed a white high-neck billowy blouse paired with draped black trousers.
Taking inspiration for these looks, and making it wearable for the cooler months, consider a pair of BCBG culottes and a pleated Nicole Miller cream tank. The wider cut makes these culottes flattering on multiple body shapes, and in of-the-moment vegan leather they can pair with everything from a white button-down shirt to a cropped sweater. When paired with a silk ivory high-neck tank just the right amount of detail is added to elevate the look. Again, minimal adornment is needed since the materials and cuts of these pieces are striking and interesting.
Based on the week’s runways, it looks as though the “black-as-a-trending-color-for warmer-months” is going to continue, for at least some designers, into next Spring. Rag & Bone, known for its utilitarian, prep-meets-street vibe, showed numerous all black looks for Spring comprised of several different textures and materials and included both trousers and skirts.
Also mixing textures, this BCBG A-line knit dress can be dressed up with wedges or look just as good with a pair of black suede boots and black tights as cooler weather approaches. Faux leather defines the moto-inspired zip placket as well as the cuffs on the sleeves, and its forgiving cut allows us to indulge in an extra mulled cider or two as the weather turns from cool to cold.
