2009 Detroit Fashion Week
The 2009 Detroit Fashion Week has two clear themes - both pride for historic Detroit and the empowerment of the female body. Set in Royal Oak, the music and décor of the event captures the best of classic Motown. Here are some highlights…
Not to be missed was the Couture Showcase, where eleven designers displayed their latest collections on the catwalk. The audience was as diverse in style as the designers. Hosts of names including, but not limited to ANGELA MCBRIDE, Femelia Couture, and William Malcolm Collection, exhibited collections with everything from an innovative take on 1980s exercise wear to classic men’s three-pieced suits as inspired by the golden-age of a post-war Detroit.
Matthew Berger and Arron White’s collection was the most entertaining of the night. With transvestite models striking poses all down the catwalk, each outfit, both technically and emotionally, fit the attitude of the person wearing it. Each design was accompanied with an appropriate music change, further reinforcing the individuality of each outfit. Yet the outfits still formed a cohesive collection – an impressive feat.
The garment’s host a wide range of excellently chosen fabrics from taffeta silks to velvets with accents of feathers and beads. The hair was high and the makeup well done. While viewing, Galiano came to mind as possible inspiration.
The collection gives a whole new meaning to sassy. Fans of Sex and the City may be reminded of the episode where Samantha moves into the meat-packing district or Carry goes with her gay-best-friend to Chelsea for an evening. Meanwhile, those who have been to The City will already know this style well. It was both a privilege to view these masterpieces and observe the enthusiastic response given by the audience.
The final collection that evening, House of Chapple, was designed by Reco Chapple from Bravo’s The Fashion Show with America’s Next Top Model contestant Bianca Golden modeling for him. The consistent collection exhibited beautiful neutrals, including some gorgeous cashmere camel tones. Up on the latest trends like exposed zippers and creamy whites, his understanding of the industry was apparent. It was a pleasure to see his work in person and his collection reinforced the diversity of Detroit’s Fashion scene.
For more information in the 2009 Detroit Fashion week or to find out about next year’s fashion week, visit their official website at: http://www.detroitfashionweek.com/
