Runway to reality
By Keke P. Mgbemena
Don’t panic if you don’t know the answers. With our Spring 07 study guide, getting an A this season will be a cinch!
WORD ASSOCIATION ALERT: Cinching voluminous shapes with a killer belt will be on the exam (wink).
“We’re into the idea of contrasts and the idea that things are defined by their opposites. We want to do something a little more true to us, a little more street… We were going for a contrast between the technical, artificial world and the more organic, natural world. We were looking at the back of all these vintage skateboards, and the colors reminded us of Ellsworth Kelly paintings.”
Lazaro Hernandez and Jack McCollough, designers of P_________ Sch_________on their 2007 line.PUMP UP THE VOLUME
It’s all about proportions when it comes to shorts, skirts and jackets. For some, adding volume to our already voluptuous shapes can be scary. However, if done properly one should feel weightless and feather light! More specifically, keep your eyes peeled for these three dress shapes: Trapeze, A-line and Babydoll.
BONUS MARKS:
Don’t be afraid to go it alone and show off your glorious stems. For a more subdued look, pair with dark denim, opaque tights or leggings.
“WEAR” TO:
Perfect for a study date or a dinner out with your girls.
RUNNER’S HIGHYou don’t need to be gym-obsessed to get into the new sports-inspired lines (though you’re going to want to with all the hemlines cut so short!). Racer stripes on leggings and cool K-WAY windbreakers are back. While you are looking hot, rest assured that the moisture- wicking fabrics will be keeping
you cool.
BONUS MARKS:
Be pro–active and pair a micro mini with a bright nylon jacket or your boyfriend’s favorite sports hoodie.
“WEAR” TO:
Your school sports event to cheer on the home team.
WHO SAID IT?
“This collection is for women who take their sport and their style seriously. Why should we have to compromise one for the other?”
— The originator of haute couture meets athletica, and inspiration for us all to dress better in and out of the gym. She is…
a) Missy Elliot
b) Stella McCartney
c) Christy Turlington
WAR OF THE ROSES“Some of the best collections looked at the distant past to get inspiration for the future.” – Tim Blanks (Writer, Style.com)
This could not have been more apparent than in the Spring 07 collections by Louis Vuitton and Alexander McQueen. Their Edwardian take on of the future saw tiny patterns (reminiscent of damask from your granny’s walls)come to life on couture clothing. As a result you will see floral bouquets on everything!
BONUS MARKS:
Make it über feminine with a tiny barely-there print, paired with a little denim. Or make it masculine by rocking it under a bolero.
“WEAR” TO:
An interview where you can let your creative side do the talking.
GOLD, FRANKINCENSE AND MYRRHOk, you get the point! The key three metallic gifts we received this season include anything silver, gold or crystal. Be it a sparkling headband, shiny bangles or a vintage chain belt, accent your outfit with an electrifying bolt of light.
BONUS MARKS:
Blow the dust off last years dazzlin’ prom gear and bring sexy back! Wear those heels with stockings and a fantastic trapeze dress, or brighten up a dull piece with a seriously shimmering bag.
“WEAR” TO:
Glam up a Sunday shopping outing, movie date, or when you head to the bookstore for some scholastic fun.
Which design house wowed the world with a peek into the future using silhouettes a la Star Wars hardware?
(hint: coveted runway item were gold leggings)
_ _ L _ _ C _ _ _ A
MICROSCOPIC PROPORTIONS
This season’s silhouette is very teeny. Don’t be discouraged — everyone can wear the shorter shape. Memorize the equation below and you will be set!
THE RULE OF SHORT:
It’s not rocket science. We all want to keep our key parts in focus. But remember, if you show it off keep the rest simple.
BONUS MARKS:
Any silhouette can look longer and more athletic when paired with this season’s chunky heel or a modern wedge.
STUDY ABROAD
Get your passport to view all the Spring 2007 shows by visiting fashiontelevision.com or the fabulous style.com.
What does a tiny micro mini B (d) paired with a fantastic tank and brightly coloured blazer T(c) equal?
B: Bottom T: Top c: Fully covered d: half covered
B (d) + T(c) = SEXY CHIC and vice versa
B (d) + T (d)= HIDEOUSLY SCANDALOUS = CHEESE FACTOR IN OVERDRIVE!
Hit the Style Hunter link [at] vervegirl.com and show us how you rock the Spring trends. The hottest shot wins the Olympus FE-230!
ANSWERS: 1. Proenza Schouler 2. Balanciaga 3. Stella McCartney
Photos by Franco Rossi
