CAROLINA HERRERA FALL/WINTER 2011
by Hope Adela Pasztor
From my aspiring fashion journalist perspective, the ultimate highlight of Carolina Herrera’s Fall/Winter 2011 fashion show (hosted today at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week) was catching a glimpse of legendary Vogue editor Anna Wintour and creative director Grace Coddington. The September Issue has only increased my admiration for these ladies; Anna for her firmness and strength, Grace for her eccentricity and artistic presence. Today’s show boasted Anna’s usual attentive “chin on hand” antics, and Grace’s contemplative note taking process. Anna wore a charming muted purple fur-trimmed jacket with a rust orange pencil skirt, complete with her signature pageboy hairstyle and aloof shades. Grace’s fiery mane of voluminous auburn tresses and wine red lipstick stood out against her completely noir ensemble.
Continuing on the topic of clothes and Vogue head honchos, I thought Carolina Herrera’s collection was quite the mix of Anna and Grace’s style. The clothes were incredibly classic and sophisticated, but creatively crafted so as not to fall into the realm of boring basics. There was an overall emphasis on the shoulders, with oversized coat collars and draped fur stoles. The models further promoted this shoulder focus with minute buns at the nape of the neck, which drew one’s attention away from the face of the wearer and onto the actual clothes. Fabrics included lustrous silks, Cruella devil perfect furs, and understated embroidered brocade. Most pieces in the collection were richly yet neutrally colored; browns, grays and beige reigned supreme. Colorful items included burnt orange and deep plum hues, reminiscent of Anna’s coat and Grace’s hair.
I’m going to be quite surprised if either of these Vogue gurus writes a negative review on Carolina Herrera’s Fall/Winter 2011 collection. It seems like this line of clothes was made just in honor of their quintessential style.
