September 10, 2007

The Nanette Lepore show was both consistent and creative, each piece individually fresh but harmonious with the greater themes of the collection.  The strong fluorescent lighting that began the show set the tone for a sea of bright colors that followed, while Lepore maintained a more conservative, wearable feel by setting the brights against smoky grays.

She was all about patterns, from abstract to painted plaid to florals, but most conspicuous were stripes, which made their way onto many tops and dresses.  The wide-leg silhouette returned to every pant, yet Lepore provided a fresh take by raising the hem of some pants to hit at the ankle.  She also brought back the cropped, unstructured jacket that abounded in fall collections. To complete the looks, python belts that sat loose and low on the hips of dresses and tight and waisted on skirts.  Heads were accessorized with thick headbands and scarves in vivid colors that popped against neutrals.  Simon Barker, a photographer on “America’s Next Top Model,” felt inspired by the show.  He classified Lepore’s customers as “rich people who can afford to dress down.” He referred to the feel of the show as “posh pikey,” a term common in England for a classy feel that encompasses a posh style with a gypsy attitude. Lepore’s commitment to chic yet wearable clothes for women was evident in all her looks