Proenza Schouler‘s Fall 2011 collection, stands far above many of its New York Fashion Week peers. Designers Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez undeniably have a knack for creating exquisitely tailored sophisticated, yet edgy, looks that make me feel as if I have died and gone to heaven, or rather to a Southwestern frontier 80s video game.
Inspired by colorful geometric South and Latin American textile designs and using computer engineered colorful tribal graphic fabrics in wool, knit, and velvet, McCollough and Hernandez took slouchy pants, chunky sweaters, and sheath dresses to a whole new level. Things only get better and better, with stand out turquoise and black and neon and yellow black silk fringed macramé ( yes, macramé) skirts paired with western button downs and bold necklaces… level up! The final five cocktail dresses, each using hand-painted velvet on transparent silk, were sexy, chic, edgy, giving the collection that final pow… and showing how the west or rather fashion week was won!
The collection was all about the details… and boy were there many of them: patent leather shearling coats, velvet jacquard dresses, strappy sandals, patterned clutch purses, leather shirts, and chunky knits (just to name a few). Every detail was perfectly in place creating a collection which I both love and hate — love, because really what is not to love and hate, because it will be torture waiting months for these pieces!
If you are feeling quite tortured like me check below for some awesome Proenza Shouler inspired styles that you can wear right now!
Motel Susan Trouser, $76, These bright daring patterned pants are just what I need to fit in with the Proenza Schouler fall collection. Wear it in the cold weather with a patterned chunky knit or a velvet top for a truly inspired look.
Dolce Vita Marina Dress, $179. Although a little too revealing for both the Proenza Schouler look and this winter weather, this dress is fabulous because it is all about the pixilated Navajo print. This will be a stand out patterned dress for the Spring/ Summer, but pair it with tights and a sweater to wear it out now!
Asos Velvet Burnout Bow Neck Dress, $116.55; NOW: $69.93. This dress is vibrant, fun, and sophisticated! The burnout quality gives the dress an edgier look, but the dress is still super chic!
Rag & Bone Rowan Sweater, $255, Pair this sweater with a pair equally as cool patterned pants or a patterned skirt for an edgy look!
Marc by Marc Jacobs Bianca Leather Clutch,$288. Add this bold colored clutch to any outfit for an instant pop of color and fun!
ASOS Cropped Leather T-Shirt, $134.48. Pair this great leather shirt with some crazy patterned pants for an edgy look that you can wear now!
– SARA STERNBERG