Spirited solutions for uncertain times

Of course, there was yet another way to handle the current electoral/fashion situation. Specifically: neither ignore nor wrestle with the country’s possible mood and its implications; simply address the problematic part of the issue, as opposed to the cause. In doing so, two designers provided their version of a solution.

To wit: “If the world is uncertain – and it is, we have an election coming, a shaky economy – the best thing clothes can do is change your attitude; lift your spirits.”

This was Michael Kors, speaking before his spring/summer show of 1960s-inspired, primary-coloured seasonless separates: bright yellow skirt suits in twill and gabardine; a red day coat with funky circle pockets; hipster belts with big silver parabolas for buckles; and a little navy dress speckled with grommets. Silk shantung tops and trousers came in a digitised print of the pool at the Beverly Hills hotel (taken by Mr Kors, natch), and knit bouclé T-shirts were palm green. If it wasn’t challenging, and Mr Kors’ work rarely is (at least on the surface), it
was undeniably cheerful, and cheering.

Meanwhile, Narciso Rodriguez began from the same theoretical base: “Optimism, that’s what people need in times of uncertainty”. For him this inspired a unique collection of easy jackets over slouchy crepe tux trousers and flowing silk tops; dresses with panelling at the torso “painted” with wooden paillettes to form an abstract, tactile floral and draped, just so, at the hip; and colour: matt fuchsia and burnt orange, teal and blue, black and white, all of it seemingly sophisticated and ineffably easy to wear. They were clothes that made you believe they would help you solve any challenge a woman might face: sartorial or otherwise, current or future.

As it happens, Kors and Rodriguez are favourite designers of Michelle Obama. Coincidence? You tell me.