Fashion Overload

First Looks: Brian Lichtenberg FW 09

Beyonce In Theirry Mugler

 

Beyonce was sporting Gareth Pugh, Brian Lichtenberg and legendary couturier Thierry Mugler in her Diva video. The collaboration with the french designer must have stuck because she enlisted his assistance in designing her entire tour. All three of the designers have strong associations with Lady Gaga which may account for visual similarities.

Thierry Mugler describes the aesthetics for all the looks as,

“The duality between being a woman and a warrior.” 

Mugler disappeared from the couture scene for some time after reigning supreme for most of the 90s. For the last few years he's produced snooze worthy menswear collections and let the money roll in from his fragrance Angel. His collections were broadcast on french television and featured an insane array of porn stars, drag divas, supermodels, and iconic women. Check out some of his higlights including the infamous George Michael video for "Too Funky" (featuring virtually every supermodel of the 90s..including a nearly nude Tyra Banks) after the jump.

Picture Me

There have been an exhausting number of cinematic jaunts into the fashion business. Most recently The September Issue which profiles the production of American Vogue's most expensive and substantial annual issue Premiering at the Gen Art Film Festival this week is Picture Me: A Model's Diary.

The documentary features appearances from fashion industry icons including Nicole Miller, Giles Bensimon, Karl Lagerfeld, Kevin Krier, and Hussein Chalayan. Ole Schell follows model Sara Ziff for several years documenting her rise from a fresh face to one that adorns billboards and magazines around the world. In the process, Ole and Sara go behind the scenes and chronicle the glitzy world of high fashion modeling, from photo shoots with celebrated photographers to runway shows in New York, Milan, and Paris. This intimate account features in-depth interviews with noted photographers and designers, but also relies on footage shot by the models themselves, giving voice to those who are often seen, but rarely heard.

First Looks: Armani Privé SS09

 

Armani Prive made a journey through the east for the latest collection by the fashion house. Although most of the influence seemed Chinese, references to Thai culture and Japanese design were on view as well. It all came together looking pretty half-assed with western models in pagoda shouldered ensembles. The final result appeared a bit like an odd and poorly executed caricature of East Asian culture. Think "Thoroughly Modern Millie" made for the runway. Click on images to enlarge.

First Looks: Stéphane Rolland Couture S/S 09

 

While several couturiers sat this season out, Stéphane Rolland made his debut presentation. Inspired by Constantin Brancusi, the collection is both architectural and sleek. The mostly monochromatic ensembles were in a fairly neutral palette which created strong silhouettes with variations in layer and texture. Likely due to the economic climate, this was a major trend this season. You can expect to see more of the same at the upcoming ready to wear presentations. Click images to enlarge.

First Looks: Christian Lacroix S/S 09

A Russian military princess mambos her way through the Riviera on the runway of Christian Lacroix. This only feels like a slight variation on his theme from last season with less inspired tailoring, hair and makeup. Click on images to enlarge.

First Looks: Gareth Pugh Homme

While most fashion houses were cutting their menswear lines this season due to financial difficulties Gareth Pugh was set to debut his line in Paris. Like his womenswear channels these are dark, heavily constructed and nightlife inspired garments. Not for everyone. He has made the rounds dressing Sasha Fierce (yes, thats Miss Beyonce), Lady Gaga, and Moi.. tomorrow I will wear one of his coats to a business meeting.

First Looks: Chanel Couture

Karl Lagerfeld presented the Spring/Summer 09 Chanel Couture Collection in what could be considered an atypical modest setting. The Grand Palais has hosted the label's presentations for over a decade with monumental sets erected specially for the program. However, last week we were ushered into a  pavilion Cambon-Capucines in the Rue Cambon. Lagerfeld explained that he wanted to start a "new page" alluding to the crisp, paper floral creations of the mostly monochromatic collection. The overall appearance was refreshing, although it had a somewhat bridal effect. The neutral tones were a staple amongst many of the collections we saw in Paris and will likely be the trend found in the coming weeks across the globe. Images and video after the jump (Click images to enlarge)

Barbie Werks The Runway

Although many designers won't appear on the Fall/Winter 09 runways in the coming weeks there's one girl you won't be able to miss. Fifty-year old style icon, Barbie will be appearing on the catwalk in both Paris and Bryant Park. Jeremy Scott cited the doll as a major inspiration for his upcoming collection. He'll also be participating in a showcase of designers whose work is entirely influenced by the plasticine fashion plate at the Mattel sponsored tents of Bryant Park. Christian Louboutin is also set to debut a pair of pumps in Barbie's iconic Pantone #219 Pink.

I [Heart] Alexander McQueen

These black crystal booties by Alexander McQueen are ridiculously beautiful and high on the drama. I wouldn't expect any less from such a genius. These kicks will be available in very limited supply at McQueen boutiques and it said they will retail for $10,000 USD. Beauty has a steep price tag. Really his work and presentations are more sculpture and performance art. Just check out these clips of his runway shows.