photo: Monica Feudi/Gorunway.com
Fashion and fantasy.
It's what I love about the couture. But today it can be a 'make it' or 'break it' concept with the economy dictating trends on the runway and the success of fashion houses. (The recent loss of Christian Lacroix Couture was a painful loss to the Paris runways and to the world.) It was refreshing to see Jean Paul Gaultier disregard reality and truly 'bring it' this season. Known for his flamboyant style, edgy aesthetic and master hand at tailoring, Gaultier did not disappoint. For Spring 2010 he crafted a fantastical collection inspired by all things Mexico. There were spanish shawls, fringe, a barrage of floral prints, and plenty of palm leaves and sombreros. He played an ode to Mexico's history as well with references to Conquistadors and the country's indigenous people. According to Style.com Gaultier was inspired by The British Museum's "Moctezuma: Aztec Ruler" exhibition which he visited recently. Combined with the influence of Avatar's tribal-eco message - the look was set in motion. Some might wonder why Gaultier pushed the edge this season. It undoubtedly is over-the-top (although I think there are plenty of wearable pieces to be pulled from the collection - that amazing 70's-esque sequin suit for instance). But Gaultier is set to clothe the masses soon with his Go International Target collab, so there will be plenty of affordable and wearable options available. And this IS the couture afterall. What else can we expect from the creator of the Madonna's infamous cone-bra, the purveyor of tattoo prints and skirts for men? And not to mention the designer of those futuristic "Fifth Element" costumes (yes, that bandage suit is still being knocked off!) I say Bravo and ENCORE, ENCORE!!!!!!
Photos: Monica Feudi/Gorunway.com and Giovanni Giannoni/WWD
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