THE POST-PANDEMIC AESTHETIC
WE CHALLENGE 3 INDEPENDENT DESIGNERS TO IMAGINE HOW CORONAVIRUS MIGHT INFLUENCE TRENDS
If fashion trends can be influenced by outside events such as war and politics, why not a viral pandemic? Katie Fong in Greenwich, Jennifer Butler in Fairfield and Derby-based Agathe Ngo Likoba were given a “Project Runway”type challenge, although we didn’t have the budget to send these local fashion designers to Mood.
“Whether we like it or not, 2020 will always be a year we remember,” says Fong, a bridal designer who sees customers commissioning more intricate and beautiful gowns.
“I believe that the minimalist trend will continue and brides will opt for more subtle silhouettes in beautiful fabric, such as Italian silk, and the focus will be on the detailed appliques and embroideries. I can envision the turtleneck trend that has taken off in sportswear, come into bridal as functional, yet unassuming alternative to a face mask.”
Fong’s sketch incorporates a turtleneck design in a sheer and breathable silk organza. The train of the four-ply silk crepe gown, as well as the tulle veil have complementing floral appliques and beading.
“I see this gown paired with a pair of clean, strappy heels in white satin and a statement earring in a neutral stone or diamonds. This design is a look that I can see on the modern 2020 and 2021 bride.”
Butler designed a coffee-filter lined raincoat with a clear brown vinyl black cape and “the biggest teeth I’ve ever seen in a zipper.”
Why? “Because the world is a mess and the need to be protected can be reflected in the simplest and most useful objects.”
Likoba, who sells fashions to the world from her Derby shop, incorporated her signature look into the face masks and gloves that we’re all wearing now.
“Trompe l’oeil! That would make you think a three-piece garment, when in fact it’s a couture jumpsuit “ménage à trois” between lace and crêpe,” says Likoba. “With its draped bustier design in the shape of a leaf, its flared legs set the tone for the lower part, all in a classic black color and assembled with the top in Alençon lace, an ivory color and refinement, matching the post-COVID-19 mask and the gloves.”
Reasons to fall for this women’s jumpsuit?
“Its refined lace, its pretty and wide neckline at the shoulders, its serrated sleeves, its fluide crêpe fabric, its elegance, its marked waist adorned with a Likoba signature gold swan belt buckle, which enhances the silhouette,” says Likoba.
The lace mask has a silky lining to go with the very chic and vintage-style gloves.
As a “Project Runway” contestant would have been asked, “Just who are you designing for?”
Likoba, who is steeped in French culture, answers by promising it will be “elegantly and beautifully worn by an audacious woman with new a air, but just as ‘intemporel’ (timeless).”