Wednesday, July 27, 2011

Review: Masters of Style, Celebrating the Stories Behind Italian Fashion

"2011 marks 150 years since Italy became a unified nation which has subsequently created some of the world's most famous artists, industrialists and designers". These were the words to describe the exhibition. Although, yes, to a certain extent, it was enjoyable to walk around looking at photographs of advertisements for these high-end fashion houses, the exhibition lacked heart and soul. The gallery itself being a glaring white background for photographs which tell a story from a far away country, seemed detached from anything portrayed. Each picture although beautiful in itself, with much craftsmanship put into each final end product, was described in a paragraph which did not aid to describe but more explained the running to the photograph. Although disappointing, there were some little gems which really stood out, mainly old photographs taken at an era dating back to Italy's more charming side with photographs representing campains which sold a mood rather then an accessory, here are some of my favourites.

 Gucci

Armani

Prada


Prada
 

Jeremy Scott = Barbie Mania

Jeremy Scott Fall 2011


Sunday, July 24, 2011

70'S COSTUME

GIORGIO ARMANI

GUCCI

YVES SAINT LAURENT

DOLCE AND GABANNA
Is it just me or is there a pattern emerging? Whether it be woman in fur or shirts, flaunting is definitely acceptable practice here for the new 2011 advertising campaigns. And why not. After all, this is what we demand of Haute Couture. A lot of sleeked back hair and men's hat with the added touch of a quiff in Dolce and Gabanna's look make for a very interesting take on 70s attire. When Gucci's fall show was commencing, Frida Gianinni mentioned Anjelica Huston as one of her style influences. Anjelica, known for her jet black hair and distinctive nose, was the ultimate it-girl in the 70s, ever so glamorous and diva-like with her boyish side coming out from time to time. It seems as though the time has come where fashion can be outrageous and the line between fashion and costume become more and more blurred which just adds to the fun of it all. The extravagance and exuberance of some is exaggerated, in sharp contrast to the androgynous choices of others.

ANGELICA HUSTON