Racked is no longer publishing. Thank you to everyone who read our work over the years. The archives will remain available here; for new stories, head over to Vox.com, where our staff is covering consumer culture for The Goods by Vox. You can also see what we’re up to by signing up here.
Rachel Roy sure knows how to throw a party. Her spring/summer 2010 fashion show on W. 25th Street yesterday was an affair that featured some of fashion's favorite names: André Leon Tally of Vogue, Linda Fargo of Bergdorf Goodman, Joe Zee of Elle, and the best name of all: Moet Chandon. The Chanel-toting crowd of mostly twenty or thirty-somethings circled the runway and pinched each other as each look debuted—the phrase "Oh my GOD" was heard more times than we could count. But who could blame them?
Roy's collection was designed with glamor in mind. She called upon influence from the 1940's and 1950's, but also incorporated the power suit of the 1990's with her vision for modern elegance. The result was immaculate: Clothes that are entirely wearable and incredibly sophisticated, with something for any woman at any age. The jacket was the focal point of the show, and rightfully so—the piece is essential to convey the sophistication of her inspiration. Roy showed hers with super sharp, strong-shouldered fits that were complemented nicely by a pair of slim-fitting trousers and killer, studded, strappy heels for a modern twist. Other influences of the jacket were visible in the wrap dresses, and more uniquely in her "tuxedo jumpsuit".
The best part of the show, however, was the color. While the collection was predominantly neutral, stand-out pieces were yellow, "cirrus" (a beautiful blue-green), purple, pink, and green. Nearly everything was modernized by stud and jewels, but the real place for excitement was accessories: The Rachel Roy for Manolo Blahnik heels the models wore were colorful, thick-strapped, and sexy. Still, she softened it up with the use of charmeuse, mélange, chiffon and tulle used to evoke a floral silhouette among dresses and draping of the jackets. An interesting juxtaposition—a woman in studded stilettos and a tough jacket can still show off her softer side. There's nothing more beautiful than that.—Phillip Picardi
· All Fashion Week Spring 2010 stories [Racked]