A lofty rendition of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” played overhead as Marc Jacobs opened his show Tuesday, February 15 at the New York Lexington Armory. This year the designer presented looks in a palette of mostly tan, black, and grey, as well as a few pastels. His collection reflected the economically conscious buyer by focusing on strong basics and instant wearability. No doubt this was one of the most conservative shows we’ve seen yet from the designer.
Jacobs told style.com “I was tired of the discussion of modernity and what’s new in fashion.” So for his fall 2010 collection the designer literally went back inside the box. Upon opening the show, a paper-wrapped crate was unsheathed to reveal 56 expertly clad models.
Shocking though it was at first to see models grace the runway in such bare frocks, it resonated a refreshing sense of hope and appreciation for well-tailored basics. The first looks included a-line, calf-length skirts, cable knit sweaters worn over dresses, menswear inspired suiting, and demure socks with pointy low-heels. With a strong reference to vintage 1920s fashion, the show sparked a dream-like nostalgia for the era’s simplistic dressing.
The second half of Jacobs’ show highlighted his flare for laid-back glamour. In discussing the clothes, Jacobs said his focus was to reference some of his earlier designs and improve three things about them each. Ruffles, fur, sequins—all pared down to their most basic aesthetic, gave new life to some of the designer’s older creations. In addition, his evening gowns, both stunning and modest, had members of the audience pulling out their phones frantic to get a picture.
Overall, the collection was practical, wearable, and smart. Though Jacobs might not have been as daring as some might have hoped, he did muster a connection between designer and buyer. The end result was a fall line offering serenity and simplicity interspersed with non-assuming instances of glamour for the people.
Written by Skimbaco Lifestyle Fashion writer Hallie McKay. Hallie also writes for the Seventeen Magazine.
