9/10/2013

Runway Review: The Row Spring 2014

Even though they've only been in the fashion business for three years with The Row, Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen's high fashion label became the definition of understated luxury. Season after season they deliver with fur as thin and as soft as cashmere and cashmere that falls like silk. Winning the CFDA award for womenswear designer of the year in 2012 was just the icing on the cake and true recognition that there is no stopping these girls.

Mary-Kate and Ashley took us on a journey of sorts. We visited Africa and India with a slight detour in New York, of course. If I had to sum up the feel of the collection, I'd say couture nomad. It comes as no surprise that the Olsens delivered (yet again) when it comes to the crafstmanship of each piece, as well as amazing design.


The entire collection felt very warm and vintage-y. Even the gorgeous white dresses (perfectly appropriate for walks down the aisle) weren't squeaky clean white (for a change), but a delicious ivory tone. Also, there was such an aura of ease around every piece that floated down the runway. Nothing felt too constricting or just plain hard to wear. It felt like a woman could really live in this clothes.


Probably my favorite pieces were the ones that I deemed to be modern versions of Out of Africa costumes. For example, a stunning, floor-length tent dress in a vivid African print was shown with a very cool headband-meets-cap to seal the deal when it comes to the inspiration. Another reference (believe or not) - beekeper's hats.


The last half of the collection was all black and very street smart. A few gorgeous, knitted sweaters reminded me of fisherman's net, whereas the silk layered dress was demi-couture unlike anything we've seen (or probably will see) during New York Fashion Week.


Isn't it interesting how one of the youngest labels showing this week managed to teach a lesson to everyone else on craftsmanship, fit and design? Perfection is a word I hate to use, but The Row came pretty damn close to it this season.


Red Carpet Wishlist




Photos from Style.com

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