Fashion-forward students have the opportunity to incorporate the latest trends into their wardrobes as the semiannual Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week concluded in New York City on February 14.
With high-fashion looks from designers as varied as Diane von Fürstenberg, Elie Tahari and Marc Jacobs walking the runways, budding fashionistas (and fashionistos) have a wealth of artistry from which to draw inspiration.
Melanie Jones, a BYU student fashion designer, said that when looking for trends in runway shows, it’s important to maintain the right perspective.
“What people need to understand is that what you’re seeing on the runways in New York isn’t meant to be worn out on the street,” Jones said. “It’s art. And you can take that art and incorporate it into your wardrobe based on trends.”
Jones said one of the biggest trends from this winter’s Fashion Week worth incorporating into your wardrobe is texture.
“Mixing textures was something I saw in a number of shows – Jenny Packham specifically did it really well,” she said. “She paired a lot of silk skirts and dresses with knitwear and sweaters. It’s something people can do easily with their own wardrobes.”
Student designer Brandon Perry echoed Jones’ sentiment about the ease of translating art you would see on a runway into everyday looks.
“You probably won’t ever wear an entire look you see in a fashion show,” Perry said. “But it’s easy to take one really cool thing you see, like a pair of pants or shoes. Simplify the rest of your outfit to let that one piece stand out.”
Janay Robison, Jones’ design partner, said vintage looks continue to populate the runway — specifically citing the ’90s as an emerging inspiration.
“It’s really interesting because today’s college students remember the ’90s from when they were kids,” Robison said. “And clothing from that decade is still really easy to find in thrift stores or maybe even in your own closet.”
Robison also pointed out that it’s easier than ever to maintain modest dress standards and still dress fashionably.
“Sleeves are in, high necklines are in,” she said. “Thankfully, these vintage-inspired styles tend to be a little more conservative, so you don’t have to make as many modifications to your wardrobe in order to stay modest.”
Overall, Robison said that the purpose of fashion is to be adventurous and have fun with it.
“I think a lot of people tend to get into this ‘I can’t pull it off’ line of thinking,” Robison said. “But if you see a look on a runway that you love, try it out. The only thing keeping you from pulling it off is fear.”
