Staying true to oneself can become a challenge in an industry as ever-changing and subjective as fashion. But for designer Vivienne Tam, she does that with ease, using her work as an anchor to stay grounded in her Chinese heritage. Before the show began on the fourth day of Mercedes Benz Fashion Week, upbeat music with an Eastern flair filled the theatre at Lincoln Center and so began our journey into her cross-cultural world.
Although her latest collection featured mostly earth-toned silhouettes, Vivienne Tam introduced pops of color with a few fur accessories and her use of prints. The Asian influence was present in many of the intricately embroidered pieces and paired with modernly luxe leather in the form of long A-line skirts and culottes. Ravishing red pieces also debuted on the runway, and the devil was in the delicate appliqué details.
Symbolic of just how refined the collection is, there was a restraint in the presentation of the models: polished with sleek ponytails and minimal makeup. While the girls were all graceful and gentle, the clothes could make their own statement of sophistication.
Trends spotted: Details. Details. Details. Classically feminine shapes were elevated with the use of embroidery, knit work, and skillful stitching.
Faces in the front row: Angela Simmons, Ty Hunter (Celebrity stylist), Adepero Oduye (Actress), Sarita Choudhury (Actress), Tashiana Washington (Singer), Eric West (Actor)
My rating: Vivienne Tam’s FW14 collection is incredibly decadent and mature. While there are many timeless pieces I could envision myself in maybe a decade from now, I found her leather pieces to be quite chic and covetable. Her use of print was also well-done, although wearing patterned pieces with matching tights is something I won’t be experimenting with myself.
My favorite look: By the show’s end, snow was falling outside of Lincoln Center, and I couldn’t help but wish I had the gorgeous gray coat to help fight the elements.
PHOTO CREDIT: Getty
