Rag & Bone, BCBG, Ports 1961

JAX

RAG & BONE

I love when a collection is directional while still remaining grounded and current, and that is exactly what we saw at Rag & Bone.  Fun beachy prints and camel neutrals met silver lame and harnesses, and the effect is better than I ever could have thought it would be.  Usually known for their military jackets and skinny pants, this was definitely a new area for Mr. Neville and Mr. Wainwright, but it felt more progressive and in tune with the brands aesthetic than just being totally random for the sake of doing something different.  Thank goodness we had a show that wasn't totally following Phoebe Philo (not that I don't like minimalism).

BCBG MAX AZRIA

If there's any brand that I'm really glad has accepted minimalism, it's BCBG Max Azria.  I felt like last season was definitely a step up from what we normally see, but this show absolutely blew me away.  I can't say that it's because it was such a great collection so much as the fact that I just generally have lower standards for BCBG.  I mean, after all the verging-on-trashy things that I see at my local mall, what am I to expect?  Good job Mr. Azria, I hope to see more awesome party dresses of this capacity from you in the future.

PORTS 1961

I can't say that Ports 1961 was anything revolutionary, but I can say that I really, genuinely enjoyed the collection.  It's a classic brand that produces beautiful, well made clothing, and sometimes, that's all I really want.  Nothing daring or sartorial, just plain, gorgeous dresses and separates.  This show definitely continued the satin trend that Katie and I have noticed for this coming spring, but I have nothing against that.  At times, shiny satin can definitely look tacky to say the least, but when it's done right, it gives pieces a nice liquid texture.  Also, I think I found my wedding dress on Freja Beha in one of the last two slides (depending on whether you're looking at Style.com or New York Magazine).

all images via