We Inspire Each Other

Stereotypes don't always accurately portray the trend or style of a particular group.  Stereotypes tend to define a group and differentiate it from others.  Ironically the groups are sometimes influenced by each other, creating a merging of trends, styles and ideas.  The skater fashion trend reached it's popularity in the 1990s thanks to skaters such as Rob Dyrdek and Bam Margera.  Along with skater clothing, "urban" or "gangster" clothing also gained popularity around this time, thanks to musical groups and rappers such as, 2Pac and Jay-Z.  Only until recently as it become apparent that the clothing styles of these two distinct groups have begun to merge.  When you think about it, it makes sense.  Both groups are stereotyped as being rebels, urban and connected to the "streets".  Take a look at the various pictures collected.  There is a mixture of "gangster" and "skater" clothing.  Are there really any differences?

One Person's Idea is Another Person's inspiration

London designer, Giles Deacon said he looked to shapes, colors, lines and designers from the eighties for his 2009 Spring RTW. It's pretty safe to say that he was inspired by more than just fashion designers from the eighties. Giles also was inspired by game designer Towu Iwatani, creator of Pac-Man.




Giles may have been inspired by game design, but designer's creations can inspire others in different ways. Before seeing Gile's Pac-man designs, I saw the face of one of his models. The make-up and overall look reminded me not of Pac-Man but of a butterfly. Inspiration is a never-ending, grwoing tree, each idea growing from the other.

Botticelli Vs Carolina Herrera

With a careful eye, the traits of Italian  painter Sandro Botticelli can be seen throughout the 2009 Spring collection of Carolina Herrera.  The soft lines and curves, vibrant colors and contrast between skin and dress.  This contrast can be seen in the makeup as well, the dark smoky eye against a soft nude colored lip.  Even the model imitates the relaxed yet strong feminine look.

London: Modernist RTW Spring 2009

Looks that imitate ones from the past, show us that designs are true to their name.  To be modern is to recognize the past.

More of Lauren's worldliness

Ralph Lauren is opening a 6,500 square foot store in Istanbul, adding to the ones that he already has in Dubai, Kuwait City, and Saudi Arabia.  It is apparent that his line was heavily inspired by his travels.

Look at the RTW Spring 2009 looks from Ralph Lauren, one can't help but notice the hints of different cultures.  Safari simply means travel in Swahili and it seems that the American designer did travel when finding inspiration for his designs, if not physically, mentally.  The gold and silver shimmer found throughout the line, allow us to erase the violent preconceptions of Safaris and help us to view the looks in a more glamour-meets-rugged sort of way.