Today in Fashion Week:October 5th

Yes, everyone, today is the very last day of the Spring 2009 shows. I'm feeling introspective, so I'll probably do a separate post later with my overall thoughts of the season, but for now the season has yet to be spoken for, because ironically some of my usual favorites land on the last day. So let's get to them!

Lanvin

Season after season, Alber Elbaz has presented his collections for Lanvin as if he has something to prove. The intensity and severity at which he has defined his vision is rare and awe-inspiring. Because of this, he has developed a devoted following that is more and more impressed with each passing show. When a situation such as this occurs, inspirations and influences become irrelevant, and the only source in interpreting a collection is the past work of the designer. Last season, Alber showed an intense show that captured a dark chic that has stuck in the minds of all followers of fashion alike. This season was somewhat of a more commercial take on that look, but the pieces are still strong enough to stand on their own. This is essential to transferring a tone season to season, and is a place where many designers tend to stumble. Nice work, Alber!

To see Louis Vuitton and Miu Miu, click


Louis Vuitton

When Marc Jacobs is having a moment, it shows throughout his collections. Last season was not one of those times, and it was noticeable through his self-titled lines as well as his work for Louis Vuitton. This season he presented a stunning show for his main line, and I'm pretty sure Marc by Marc Jacobs was pretty good too;(It's been a looong season.) By that standard, the Louis Vuitton show was also noteable this season. There was some sort of theme in there, (female warrior?) some point in history undoubtedly being referenced in a smart and witty way. It was a bright spot on the shows this season.


Miu Miu

Part of what I love about Miu Miu is that it's not Miuccia trying to avoid reusing elements of Prada's most recent show. There's a noticeable trickle-down factor, with the asymmetric half-skirts present on the runway. But at the same time, it's not a lesser version of Prada. It's becoming more and more of a separate entity, with new motifs for Miuccia. This season the clothing was occasionally decorated with images of historical figures, something that's been done before but was in desperate need of a retooling. I'm happy to say that the show did not dissapoint.

That's it for the season! See you in February for Fall 2009!