There aren’t many creative outlets that allow us to experiment and explore quite like fashion. Through the years trends come and go and we relish in trying new colours, shapes and cuts in a bid to find our own personal style. And while you may look back and cringe at some of the more outrageous, and dare we say it disastrous choices of seasons past, each and every fashion faux pas distinctively shapes your sartorial mindset.
It’s safe to say that I’ve learnt a few things along the way. I’ve discovered that classic clean lines simply cannot be beaten and that less is most certainly more when trying to create that perfect look. Most designers have been championing these simple rules for eternity and none more so than Alexander Wang, who continually manages to encapsulate classic female elegance in all its glory. I fear I’m preaching to the converted on this one!
Moving to New York from LA at the tender age of 18 to study at Parsons School of Design it seems that Alexander Wang has always believed in his own ability, dropping out of Parsons in his sophomore year to launch a line of unisex cashmere sweaters that he was adamant would succeed. Having already interned for Marc Jacobs, Derek Lam and Vogue, Wang was more than ready for the debut of his namesake label in 2007. A year later Wang was awarded the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund Award which helped to finance the creation of a menswear collection, shortly followed by footwear, accessories and the T by Alexander Wang diffusion line.
Wang was recognised for his desirable off-duty model aesthetic, clean cut lines, and timeless approach – factors which no doubt led to him to the helm at Balenciaga in 2012. In a nutshell, Wang provides young women with clothes they want to wear, it’s as simple as that! And it is this simplistic attitude to design that fuels the critical and commercial success of his incredible career.
Available at Avenue 32
Available at Avenue 32
Fall 2014 and Wang is back with another show stopping collection, cementing his place as one of the ‘it’ designers of our time. A muted colour palette of cream, black and grey with stunning pops of blood orange lends itself beautifully to the tailored, almost school-like quality of the collection. But please do not be fooled as the range is in no way for kids! The intricate studding detail on the base of on trend bucket bags and daring cut out details give the collection a raw edge that is juxtaposed perfectly by clean tailored lines.
Available at Avenue 32
Through his understanding of women and what they want Wang is able to create timeless, on trend collections that not only flatter the female form, but challenge the way in which we think about clothes. He has established himself as a go-to designer for celebrities, bloggers, and fashion conscious women alike. Wang’s amalgamation of East meets West coast style evolves season upon season, year after year, and thankfully shows no sign of slowing!