By: Jennifer Creel
Jennifer Creel
Fashion has always existed in two worlds. One lives in our everyday: the clothes we choose to wear to work, to brunch, to celebrations. They lean toward practical and, hopefully, comfortable. For most people, the goal is for their clothing to be flattering and functional.
The other exists on the runway, where fashion becomes art: performance, sculpture, and a reflection of our zeitgeist. The clothing isn’t practical; it’s meant to captivate. Fashion shows create theatrical performances where you might find your inspiration, taking ideas of a designer and creating your own identity. There are always pieces you can take and wear off a runway, but some designers are more theatrical, so you take the inspiration and twist it into your everyday attire or evening wear.
A futuristic look from Dutch designer Iris Van Herpen
We are the attention-deficit generation, constantly wanting to be wowed, and designers understand that. Fashion events have become immersive works of art that push boundaries, challenge convention, and invite us to imagine the future. While trends tend to circle back—lingerie dresses from the ’90s, oversize accessories, dramatic belt buckles, statement jewelry—the presentation is increasingly futuristic.
The use of AI has put everything that we know into warp speed. Designers like Iris van Herpen and Schiaparelli have embraced technology to help their ethereal and feminine creations come to life. Contrast that with the sophistication of Tom Ford, whose tailored suits remind us that classic elegance never goes out of style but can be brought to the next level of couture. At this year’s Met Gala, Zac Posen went way back to Greek mythology for the goddess dress he 3D-sculpted onto Kendall Jenner. The conversation isn’t about choosing one over the other. It’s about finding inspiration and balance in both.
Kendall Jenner wore a custom GapStudio by Zac Posen gown to the Met Gala in May
This balance is reflected in the women who continue to intrigue us. Catherine, Princess of Wales, is stunning in a vibrant yellow dress by Roksanda, while Mariska Hargitay is relatable and down-to-earth in her Knicks T-shirt and sneakers. Gwyneth Paltrow and Aerin Lauder are quietly chic in their effortless American style. Michelle Obama recently reminded us that soft tailoring—in her blue-and-white seersucker suit by Thom Browne—can feel elegant, modern, and quietly powerful all at once.
Something exciting that we’ve been seeing more of are collaborations between designers and artists. The ubiquitous “x” has been popping up connecting high fashion with visual art, large designer x smaller designer, one market x another. Louis Vuitton x Takashi Murakami, Burberry x de Gournay, Manolo Blahnik x Emilia Wickstead to name a few. It’s smart marketing; brand deals that bring together consumers of different worlds, but it also speaks to the nature of our world right now, where we understand that together is better than solo, and creativity thrives when connections are made.
Michelle Obama in a Thom Browne suit
Today’s generation seems less interested in excess and doesn’t want to spend money on fashion. Experiences and travel are valued over following the next trend. We seek clothing that’s beautiful but versatile and practical. Comfortable, soft, flowy, and feminine are the standard.
At the end of the day, classic and lovely is less about what’s trending, because we always circle back to what looks best on us. Timeless, enduring beauty always wins.
