When New York Fashion Week is going on, it can be quite difficult for all the fashionistas at UT to focus on homework or anything else for that matter. There are plenty of students on campus who revel in this affair, working to ensure that their current wardrobe is up to par. The event, which was hosted by Mercedes-Benz Feb. 6-13 focused on fall and winter wear. This year, the event is not just about the latest trends.
E! Online reported this season had a larger representation of different ethnicities and more plus-sized models than in past years. Unfortunately, the highly acclaimed fashion stylist and NYFW pro, Rachel Zoe, wasn’t able to show her collection due to family obligations. However, that didn’t stop the show from making an impression.
When it comes to the actual fashion, the big trending topic of style is cowboy chic.
“Fall 2014 will be all about Americana and Wild, Wild West inspiration with fringe scarves, frayed edges, equestrian-inspired boots and blanket coats leading the charge,” said Sheila Aimette of fashion forecaster WGSN, the official trend sponsor of NYFW as reported by CNN.
Fashion lovers can also expect lots of plaids and gingham that are re-colored in bright hues. Although cropped pants will be making a comeback this fall, the spring crop top trend will be replaced with more boxy tops.
“The seasons are becoming less about weather-related clothing and more about key items a woman needs for her lifestyle,” said Joyann King, Harper’s Bazaar digital director as reported by CNN.
Coats will be another big hit in the realm of fall/winter fashion of 2014. Meanwhile, the ever-so-popular women’s sportswear trend remains not as predominant. Athletic styling will be used as accents to more feminine pieces. According to CNN, Michael Kors paired sneakers with skinny brocade pants in his pre-fall collection. As for colors, teal will be especially prominent, as well as berry tones incorporated with caramel, gunmetal and navy.
“I’m really excited for the new trends,” said Onelja Shejaj, a junior government and world affairs major. “I personally love plaid and I had a feeling that it would come around again. I’m also really excited for fringe scarves.”
Some winter/fall collections that were showcased included many feathers and furs, such as North Face pant parkas and Jane Birkin’s Swingin’ ‘60s peacoats. Designer Jason Wu kicked off the show with his elegant and relaxed collection that is also very wearable. The purpose of his clothes is to channel a woman’s inner-power, according to The Daily Beast. Some of his pieces consisted of blazers, trousers and semi-sheer turtlenecks. Rag & Bone’s runway show had a similar vibe as well but with darker colors such as black and dark blues. Rag & Bone has become quite popular with the younger crowd.
“My favorite collection would have to be Rag & Bone,” said Mandie Ronnick, a freshman communications major. “The clothes are very edgy while still maintaining its practicality.”
Some other popular lines were Rebecca Minkoff’s, Ted Baker’s and Carmen Marc Valvo’s. But of course, there will always be those trends that turn people’s heads–and not in a good way. A few of the wacky pieces include Jeremy Scott’s tacky graphic designs, Thom Browne’s zombified white attire and Elle’s oddly shaped dresses.
“I really did not like the [Elle’s] collection,” said Santiago Saenz, a freshman international business and finance major. “The shape of the outfits were definitely not flattering on even the models.”
Although the fashion show had its gaudy moments (as per usual), the overall outcome left some UT students pleased and excited for new fads to come.
Madison Irwin can be reached at madison.irwin@spartans.ut.edu