MIAMI FASHION WEEK

It's that time of the year again. End of March always brings us the most exciting events of the year, and, after that, Miami goes back to its usual and routine parties.

This year, the 11th annual MFW will take place at Soho Studios in the Wynwood art district. I have to admit, Miami is nowhere near other cities' exhibitions... but, hey! We are all trying to make this work. On my visit there today, we got to take a look at what we will be seeing by the end of the week. Casting and fittings were taking place and it is all looking good so far. Yes, it is early in the week to see the final stage set and the lounges, bars, and seats placed. However, I will be working backstage throughout the week, so I will get to see the baby's progress and the final results.

MFW is known for bringing many latin American designers to the US. It is a market for the yet to be discovered caribbean talent. You won't see any Viktor & Rolf outrageousness (sadly), but this year is even more promising than the last one. Pictures to be uploaded possibly tomorrow, right now, it's girl catch up dinner time.

Take care ya'll, be safe, and rest (WMC is right around the corner!)
Check the MFW link while you're at it http://www.miamifashionweek.com/

xoxoxo,
Barbie

RTW FW09

As I continued to sort through collections, I noticed how I had such high expectations about this upcoming season, that I found myself a little let down. Alexander Wang left a small impression on me for some reason. Bottega Veneta's collection was, I think, saved by the last few looks (full length dresses that had a beautiful drape).

Bottega Veneta - I have to admit I could not take my eyes off the curious construction details. Boobs anyone? Fave looks were 16, 20, 30, 31, 32 (pic).

Boy by Band of Outsiders - I never actually bothered paying so much attention to this lot until now. Simplistic yet beautiful collection. Out of the fifteen looks, I could say I liked all of them. Classic pieces that, layered in a way to make them stand on their own yet make the outfit work... Bravo to these people for putting together something so nice. Let's face it, Boy by Band of Outsiders isn't at the same level as some other New York based designers. So I give them props for working with what they have and making it work so smoothly. Check out looks 2, 6, 8, 9, 11, 14. Images are, in order, 2, 9, and 11.

Burberry Prorsum - From the timeless Burberry trenchcoat to full A line floral skirts. This collection is full of the Prorsum edge that Bailey brings forth every season. I loved the neutral tones. From white, to gray, to black... and back again. Also, texture seemed to play a big part since I saw everything from light and flowy dresses, to tailored pants, to oversized fur coats. Favorites were 5, 11, 13, 18, 20, 26, 35.

C'N'C Costume National - Very surprised to find myself liking this so much. Capasa (designer) managed to bring the rocker chick to the runway, taking from the rocker and bringing a more glamorous and edgier side to his collection. Loved the hardware zipper detailing, but I have to admit I have seen it before, and it has been used in many collections all over. It's almost like the line up starts during the day of a woman and ends at night with those gorgeous dresses. 4, 7, 8, 13, 21, 32.

That is it for today. Look out everyone. MFW has officially begun! I'll be having a busy week, posting as soon as I get a chance.

xoxoxo,

Barbie

OK I'm back!

I have been away for a while, mainly taking care of my own creations and projects. Now back to blogging and reviewing the latest FW09 collections. I do have to say though, that I was greatly disappointed today when I woke up from my poolside nap to go and check out McQueen's collection for Target.. horrid. Borderline tacky, looked something you could find at your local Rave location.

I will only go over a few since, well, its Artwalk saturday! :)

Academy of Art University - my full support. 100% new talent, coming out with great silhouettes. The four collections that I got to see were clearly well thought and put together. The first 2 or 3 being my favorites.

3.1 Phillip Lim - always impressive, playful with textures. This time, he did it again. My favorite looks? 7, 10, 16, 17. Check them out on WWD.

Alexander McQueen - one of my top 5 favorite designers. always thinks outside of the box and that is something i have admired since day one. FW09 is houndstooth to the max, Amanda Lepore lips... yet he pulls it off. It is ALL about the prints and that dark side that McQueen always brings to the runway. Umbrellas as headpieces? Check. Crazy scarves? Check. Usual McQueen genius? CHEEECK. The last couple of looks that are shown are simply amazing, made me want to stick my face to the monitor with hopes of being taken to the show, for real. Breathtaking. Ok, and I really had to narrow this one down... fave looks are 6, 10, 14, 17, 20, 21, 22!, 35, 36 (picture), 42, and 43. From the amazing headpieces made from recycled and reused materials, to the high-drama (classic McQueen!) gowns and coats. This man should NOT be taken for granted.

Balenciaga - Ghesquiere does an amazing job, yet again. From the first look all I can focus on is that beautifully draped skirt. I can't seem to choose a favorite look yet. His masterful use of color makes me wonder... How does he do it? The fabrics look beautiful and I can almost see the flow through the photo. Ok now, on with the review... loved how he played in the beginning with the rough v. soft of the fabrics. Texture has been a big deal for him as seen in his last collections. The draped silk skirts and pants blew me away. Although I am a bigger fan of his modern twist and point of view of clothes, I do approve of this collection. Faves are 2 (pic), 5, 6, 7, 8, ad 13.

OK I'm out of time for today. Many galleries to be walked. Will be posting more soon, I promise. In the meantime, be on the lookout for the Miami International University of Art and Design talent! Fashion Show takes place at the Fountainbleau (Miami Beach, Fl) on March 26th. Many students, myself included, will be showing their new work. Next week, also, I will be working backstage at Miami Fashion Week... I will let you readers, whoever you are, how that went.

xoxoxo

Barbie.