The reigning king of prep went Art Deco for fall with his sophisticated eastern-influenced collection. I’ve been waiting for the Boardwalk Empire influence this season and it could not have come from a more surprising show. It may not have been drop-waisted gowns and three-piece suits, but the 20s deco influence was inherent in everything from the beauty look to the shoes at Ralph Lauren.
In spite of the statement lip colors and jade and red lacquered accessories, the designer showed a dark collection, literally, as black was the primary color. Smoking jackets, slim cut trousers, and minimal eveningwear were paired with thoughtful accessories and gave this collection a very wearable and covetable appeal.
The Asian influence in fashion recently has mainly stayed in the business pages as the market is quickly becoming the fastest growing luxury stage, but until now, we have yet to see it translate directly onto the runway.
Photos: Vincenzo Grillo, IMAXtree
