What better way to spend a Friday night than sitting second row at one of the most rock star chic shows to hit Lincoln Center on Day 2 of Mercedes Benz Fashion Week? That’s what I did as Mark and Estel made their Lincoln Center debut one worth remembering with a packed-house. And in addition to designing The New World Collection, the pair also made the accompanying music for the runway show.
Mark and Estel as a fashion line emerged in the press when Mary Kate Olsen began wearing their designs. In 2009, Mark and Estel garnered further recognition when they custom-made their ‘Ripped & Holey Leggings’ for Lady Gaga on her Fame Ball Tour (yes, the ones she wore while shooting boobie rockets) and now, the pair has taken the color out of Spring/Summer 2014 with a completely monochromatic runway collection. Sans the feathered hats, we’re coveting just about everything.
To be clear, The New World Collection’s risque cuts and rope dresses are not for the fashion faint of heart, which made the presentation all the more exciting. Steering clear of the traditional colors and fabrics for spring, Mark and Estel opted for heavy fabrics like velvet – normally reserved for the winter months before and immediately following the Holiday season – with high cuts and zipper additives.
After debuting 31 looks, without a drop of color (save for the pink tank dress), on some of the most gorgeous models, the pair took their final walk with a live rendition of their duet “The New World” after which the collection was named.
Trends spotted: The show was black, white and sheer all over. Mark and Estel are less about the trends, and more about the rocker-chic working girl aesthetic, naturally the sheer items would need to be layered for optimal wear.
Faces in the front row: Jessica White, Margarita Levieva, Julie Henderson, Shane Duffy, Alex McCord
My rating: As a biased New Yorker, I can find a way to work any black item into my wardrobe, so I would naturally gravitate towards those items. I do however, adore the trapeze tanks and zipper details to upkick the rock-vibe of the collection.
My favorite look: The heavenly maxi dress with an embellished bottom and tie front detail. It moves with absolute grace.
Follow GlobalGrind’s Style Editor @MiissHislop for Mercedes Benz Fashion Week updates from inside the tents.
PHOTO CREDIT: Splash News / Getty Images
