Runway Review: Alessandra Rich Spring 2015

“Not only is lace very feminine, but I love that you look at it once, then you realize you don’t understand, so you have to look again.” As stated regarding her Fall collection, Alessandra Rich provided a perfect riff off of those ensembles with her latest installment for Spring 2015 except this time, rather than heading off to a party, Rich‘s girl was more likely off to the opera. Fabrics were sophisticated as looks were made from primarily head to toe vintage chantilly lace or double-faced satin in a palette keeping in the antique realm – various creams, faded pinks and black. Accessories were kept simple, metal-tip pumps in brass and large round pearl studs, allowing the drama to lay entirely within the clothing itself. There were certainly fun surprises like tiered fringe skirts and tweed trimmed seams but it was the over-sized lapels, long hemlines and circle buckle leather belts that cinched the waist that were repetitive, providing a couture retrospeck of the 1980’s – an alternative to the mainly 70’s throwback featured on most other designer runways this season. Although these details in addition to bows and fabric like velvet and organza with glittering colorful florals providing an additional nod to the most “rad” decade ever, the silhouettes and necklines provoked a vintage feel, more 1940’s, providing a one of a kind collection that stood out amongst its peers.