This season saw New York Fashion Week take a more colourful spin on classic American style. Minimalism graced the catwalk in true NYFW spirit with Calvin Klein as the big contender. Many designers focused on texture and colour yet combining with a subtle silhouette. Elegant, sleek and well-tailored.
What’s great about the New York shows is that designers make clothing more relatable to customers. Ralph Lauren delivered a very modern and relevant show but with a Chinoiserie twist. Extremely chic with embellishments and prints from Asian influences, with the Dragon making a regular appearance. There were elements of European style too with browns and tweeds.
Ralph Lauren
Another all American designer who focused on sleek elegance was Tommy Hilfiger, opting for a less preppy look with more androgynous formalwear showcasing some very desirable double breasted jackets. It was kept quite casual however with jersey dresses and knitted ponchos. Hilfiger similarly delivered a variety of surface designs with pyjama prints and patchwork.
Tommy Hilfiger
A maverick in American fashion, Marc Jacobs did not disappoint this season either, especially with his use of graphic prints, paying particular attention to the polka dot. He was also smart and sleek however silhouettes were slightly looser. A lot of pieces were belted with impeccable tailoring, often combined with tiny hats showcasing MJ’s precise and mannered style. Colour was primarily monotone yet with bursts of silver and burgundy and subtle hints of deep blue and emeralds. A favourite piece from the show was the latex Wellington boot. Oh so couture!
Marc Jacobs
Looking at the lady designers, Donna Karen AKA Mrs New York had a more sophisticated approach to colour with red, beige and black/blue combos. Her palette progressed into more brown camel tones with a safari meets the seventies vibe. There was a continuation of flares throughout the collection. Donna Karen also sported the cape for the Autumn/Winter 2011 season, a key piece on the New York catwalk.
DKNY
And lastly let’s look at Diane Von Furstenberg (to all the cool fashion kids, DvF). Inspired by American legends, she streamed a very glamorous collection, glitter dresses galore! Strong influences from the South-American countryside gave it a very western feel. Bold colour combinations also flew down the runway – reds, blacks, gold, emeralds, blues and turquoise gave a very seventies glam aesthetic. Oversized hats and the upbeat seventies soundtracks added to the nostalgic vibe.
DvF
New York Fashion Week designers sent out a strong message to buy special pieces with staying power; advising all fashionistas to go for strong and classic looks.
So what key trends can we steal from NYFW…
Motif mania! Be experimental with different prints – be it hounds tooth, polka dots or Aztec. Go crazy!
Play with textures – be it velvet, fur, latex or cable knits!
Colour – go bright and bold! Cleverly combine contrasting colours or clash similar toned pieces.
Seventies style – continue the love of flares, ponchos, capes and oversized hats next season.
Smart tailoring – opt for belted/double breasted jackets to form tight silhouettes – très chic!
Go Global! Gather inspiration from all aspects of Europe, Asia and America. Be continental!
Saw this really cool illustrated icecream truck on the sidewalk in Soho. How innovative and inventive to sell designer goods on the move. They were so encapturing, blasting upbeat hip hop tunes to city shoppers. So fun and fresh!
Inside the creative walls of the prestigious Museum of Modern art.
I found this sign very inspiring with the use of colour and words, sort of like MoMa’s manifesto.
I just like how I have caught the reflection of the viewers in the piece.
Jasper Jones – Flag (1954-55)
I like the rustic look of this piece and the textural qualities from the collaged surface. However the concept is too generic for me.
Classic Warhol wallpaper, very eye catching indeed.
Warhol’s Marylyn. I love the worn effect from the screen printing.
Pollock. His crazy abstract and expressive style is commendable, it proves how artists were way ahead of their time. The merging of colours is amazing, so encapturing.
A classic Picasso piece which is incredible to have in your presence.
I would definitely advise you visit the Museum of Modern Art, it’s not too expensive and there is so much gallery space and floors to explore, you’ll be entertained for hours. Not just for art lovers.
Holton Farms is part of the current urbanomics trend and delivers high quality produce to New Yorkers from a farm truck on the road. How very refreshing to see an organic take on street selling, rather than the hot dog and pretzel stands unhealithly positioned on every single avenue.
They offer organic and conventional vegetables, herbs and fruits, grass fed beef cows, pigs, lambs, chickens, turkeys, eggs, maple syrup and honey. All of which is available to the less fortunate as part of their involvement in helping low income neighbourhoods. What’s more is that any un-used food is passed on to NYC shelters and soup kitchens.
I find their sustainable methods very compendable indeed. I only wish I could have seen one of these trucks while I was in New York because I would have definitely supported this ever so compassionate cause. Apparently their employees dance to happy reggae beats around the truck.
When I next venture to NYC, I will without a doubt dig deeper into the many diverse cultures.
Check out their website and have a look at some of their press bits http://www.holtonfarms.com/ very interesting and insightful!
A big face in fashion, New York based photographer Steven Klein has and is still producing edgy editorials for extremely influential publications and designers. I came across Klein whilst in New York when I bought W magazine. and was very interested in the filmic quality in his photographic stories.
He has worked alongside Dolce & Gabbana, Alexander McQueen and Calvin Klein for ad campaigns aswell as magazines American and Italian Vogue and Arena.
I particularly love his work with celebrities where you see them transform into artful, beautiful forms rather than the usual hollywood red carpet figure we see pasted all over the gossip pages. His shoot with Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt is my fave, they look uber cool with a Bonnie and Cylde sort of vibe going on. Genius.
A more violent take on New York this time with A Guide To Recognizing Your Saints. A 2006 film set in Queens, 1986 where you can see just how extreme crime is when gangs fight out for their turf. Starring some big names – Robert Downey Jr, Shia LaBeouf and Channing Tatum, this film will leave you gasping for breath!
Okay so it’s not as glamorous as movies set in the big City but it is definitely a must see if you want to see the real brutal yet beautiful New York…
I saw this film last week at Nottingham Contemporary, a 1978 classic starring Faye Dunaway as a physic fashion photographer and Tommy Lee Jones, a mysterious Police detective. Check this short clip out to see how the streets of New York sets the scene of murderous crime. Laura Mars (Faye Dunaway) can see through the eyes of a serial killer as he commits his crimes. Spooky shit indeed.
New York’s next big thing… the model/DJ now designer extraordinaire Mandy Coon!
Her S/S 2011 collection was electric. Inspired by jellyfish with bubble shapes and draping, shes definitely deserves the prestigious Ecco Domani Fashion Fund award.
The darkeness of the collection reflects Coon’s terrifying fear of the stinging sea creature.
Watch this fashion vid outside American Apparel in Soho. The narrator guy sounds like andy warhol, don’t you think???
As an avid lover of the kooky brand , I also went to their Soho store to check out the merchandise. Absolutely no different to UK stores but still, there’s no harm in browsing.
I got chatting to the employees in New York to get their opinion of the ever so contraversial brand and here are some photos of the staff (ahem clones) themselves…
Meet Olivia.
Meet Bryana.
And my dear friend Shannon modelling this amazing and glamorous seventies style hat in store.
I’m a massive Jamie XX fan, I saw him at Detonate in Notts in November last year and was completely amazed by his magnetic performance. Check this tune out he’s mixed for Gil Scott-Heron which is truly comendable. I’m merely posting this because New York is in the title but if you research into Scott-Heron you will find some more New York themed music videos which are really artistic and crazy.
I watched this interesting documentary last night about a group of inspirational artists in the 90s’ who surround their art and grafitti around New York. There’s a fantastic guy with a buzz cut in it, Steven Powers, who speaks with so much passion especially about the correlation between realism and art. Basically a bunch of humble kids who revolutionised street art, I particularly like the obey art which derived from Shepherd Fairy. I respect their creativity which doesn’t conform to normality. The beginning of the underground cool kids.
When in New York, me and my friends met Saint Motels on the Subway, an indie band from LA.
They were genuinely cool guys, dressed in their shirts, slim slacks and pumps. As we are English and they obviously loved our accent, they invited us to their gig in Brooklyn at Union Hall on the Saturday night of our trip… how rad! Check out this tune, Mystery Jets and The Fratelli’s spring to mind.
It would seem that a lot of upcoming, unique musicians are associated with Brooklyn, which is apparently the new Manhattan.
Undoubtedly my favourite band of the moment, Sleigh Bells are an American duo from Brooklyn in New York. They put their own spin on electronic music combining heavy beats with the magnetic voice of vocalist Alexis Krauss.
Check out this tune, “Riot Rhythm”, you will definitely want to discover more of their pulsating tracks. I can’t wait to go see them at Rescue Rooms in Nottingham on the 16th of Feb.
Yet another encapturing video of New York. Its such a beautiful city and I feel honoured that I have been there.
It truly gives you an idea of night time in New York. Feel the music and enjoy the artistic cinematography. I love the close ups and panning motions, transporting you through time.
Check this amazing video out by Thomas Noesner. He took his camera through the hustle and bustle of the New York City streets and recorded the most authentic shots of real New Yorkers. He has created a remix over the video which compliments the up beat vibe perfectly. It seems to be inspired by the guy in the Subway smashing the drums. I also got the pleasure of seeing this underground drummer in the Subway, which was so uplifting in such a busy and serious environment. I will later post the screening of one of my favourite moments in the big city.
One of my must-see places to visit was the Museum at FIT, apparently the most fashionable museum in New York City. Ohhhh.
Situated on Seventh Avenue at 27 Street, this Fashion Institute of Technology holds permanent collections as well as different exhibitions from the work of contemporary creative minds. Photographers, designers and artists worldwide are showcased with the best in the business such as footwear designer extraordinaire Manolo Blahnik and art maverick Salvador Dali.
Primarily, the FIT is a University which would be absolutely incredible to attend. Studying fashion and being in one the best fashion capitals in the world sounds pretty amazing to me. A dream come true springs to mind. FIT + NYC = HEAVEN! Just imagine the opportunities at your fingertips.
I pray I get the chance to study in NYC for a term in my second year.
NYC is the centre of the cultural world. It has incredible museums, a range of music scenes and you can taste cuisines from all over the globe. Little Italy and Chinatown sound fantastic! I’m digging trying some New York style noodles.
Even though I am back from the big city, I am still obsessed with New York based movies. Anything remotely related to New York is exciting in my eyes.
In Going the Distance, which stars Drew Barrymore and Justin Long, you get to see the beautiful suburbs of New York as well as the city skyline and also the traditional american diners, which I absolutely dig! It’s definitely one to check out if you like contemporary comedy and love stories. You also get a sneak peak of San Francisco which is also on my travel to do list.
I don’t know why I fanny around when it comes to packing. All I really need is my cherry red Doc Martins. Maybe I need a bigger case though as I may just be making some rather large purchases…
Checked in and waiting to board @ gate 32. Mmmm I wander what the plane food will entail… Let’s hope some sort of New York cuisine, I could murder a bagel with philli or a slice of cheesecake. Have a nice day x
I can’t wait for strolling along the streets of New York like a little Edie. According to a dear friend this young photo of Ms Sedgewick is a good resemblence of me…
Check out this clip of Valerie Steele, the director of The Museum at FIT. She discusses Japanese fashion in the 80s’ and avant-garde designers Rei Kawakubo of Comme des Garcons, Yohji Yamamoto and Issey Miyake; truly revolutionary designers. She also talks about Harujuku street fashion which I think is fantastic. It’s refreshing to see fun and youthful urban style yet with an asian twist.
I cannot wait to visit the Musuem at FIT… I wonder if it will be more interesting than the similar exhibition at the V&A in London. Mmmmmm we shall see.
Oh yes another New York based film that tickled my fancy. The legend that is Mr Denzel Washington collides head on with subway train hijacker Travolta who along with other bad guys holds passengers hostage in return for a ransom. Bad eggs!
Not incredibly action packed however I did rather enjoy the shots of New York City. Apparently the original 1974 has more real and gritty shots. Might check it out.
What a fantastic name, Italo! Undoubtedley an Italian fellow who is currently best known as the director of menswear for Calvin Klein. The Parisian headhunter Floriane de Saint-Pierre spotted his talent, especially for his tailoring and cutting edge designs; having previously worked for Jil Sander and briefly at Prada.
The 45 year old Italian designer is based in New York and adores the gay summer enclave known as Fire Island, a completely laid back atmosphere where anything goes. Zucchelli describes it as gorgeous. I doubt I’ll be visiting that part of town on my travels in NY.
It is unfortunate to note however, that Zucchelli believes;
“I no longer find my inspiration in New York, but rather when I travel to cities like Berlin and Tokyo.”
Let’s hope that I get to go to those influential fashion destinations throughout my three years at University.
Here are some of the Spring Summer 2011 designs from from the menswear maverick himself – Beware there are some scary sites… shiny suits, cropped jackets and hot pants.
New York designers and stores across the five boroughs, alongside street style shots of the uber cool kids on the block will inspire me throughout my trip.
My nikon DSLR will be at my fingertips throughout my days in NYC. Street style, skylines and iconic sites will be my core material for junkie behaviour.
Many prestigous films are set in New York City and to get a feel for the different cultures I will post a variety of film reviews and clips of some of the best cinematography state side has to offer.
Below are a couple of some ace New York movies, a selection from sensitive and emotional ones to violent and gangster ones. Feast your eyes upon these pair and keep an eye out for more movie posts NYC style.
This film is so interesting yet has absolutely no clear plot which is actually why I like it so much. It is literally a collection of different people’s stories around New York, showing loads of different lifestyles and backgrounds. Watch it and you will both cry and laugh at the fascinating lives of New Yorkers.
JD Fergusson’s Fashion Fix at New York Fashion Week. Here he goes backstage at Anna Sui to dish the dirt. Currently a nightlife and fashion photographer to the stars… he’s a fashion success to you and me… the lucky bugger.
I don’t think that post title can be abbreviated any more (unless I use an acronym) but yes, to put it bluntly this magazine is rad!
Of course, a New York based magazine and it encompasses all of my favourite things; art, music, fashion, film, media and lifestyle… sounds rather like my own blog 😉
Their website and magazine is fresh with modern typography and graphics and bright colours. They feature the creme de la creme of uber cool celebrities, with the likes of Pharrell Williams, Jay Z, Chloe Sevigny and Prince all glossing the front of the monthly issues.
I will definitely be picking up a copy in New York and checking out true New York lifesyle.
The Spring Issue
The Beautiful People Issue
The Social Networking Issue
The Nightlife Issue
The Art Issue
The Winter Issue
I find this publication rather Dazed and Confused like, an NYC version in fact.
To get me in the New York spirit I decided to watch one of my favorite 60s’ films – the ever so glamorous Audrey Hepburn in Blake Edwards’ Breakfast at Tiffanys, originally written by Truman Capote. I read the book earlier this year, however I prefer the modified ending in the 1961 film where she falls for Paul ‘Fred’ Varjak. This is a happier and more fairytale like ending than in the book where she doesn’t settle for true love.
Above is Holly Golightly, the quirky and compassionate New York socialite, an absolute daaaaaarling of a lady who oozes elegance. Her extravagant and luxurious lifestyle is a dream world. To many young females today this is an aspiration and what many people travel to the Big City for… in this case love and diamonds.
nyjunkie 
