GARETH PUGH aw13 Paris

Known for fashions with performance art quality, British designer Gareth Pugh (who resides) in Paris  impressed with a parade of ice queens for GARETH PUGH AW 2013 collection. The magnificent Hôtel Salomon de Rothschild in the heart of Paris was also transformed to enhance the vibe of the show. Front row included Cher, Fergie, designer Rick Owens, founder of French fashion + culture mag Purple – Olivier Zahm, and multi-millionaire James Goldstein.

The theatrical quality of the frozen scene extended the theme from clothing, to hair, to make-up, nails, jewelry and everything that was meant to be seen. White, grey, black, and blue all over shades of gloom where somehow softened by smooth unbroken lines, resulting in a romantic moodiness. Barren limbs printed against a few of the white pieces reinforced the nature of the collection, and Lindsey Wixson looked stunning in white, even with the ‘dark’ make-up . The sculptural elements enveloped the models with purpose, as high necks and raised collars added concentrated dimension.

The closing looks loosened up a bit,  with a shiny plastic-like fabrication layered and moved with an almost feathered feel. The more we saw, the more drama that came along with it. Make-up was applied all-over, suggesting a kind of morbid pallor. Together with pretty turned ratty hair, a gothic appeal emerged. Overall the serious approach achieved a look that was eccentrically elegant. Still, this was one show we couldn’t stop looking at.   fdmLOVES Gareth Pugh Fall 2013 selects by Brigitte Segura, Written by Sarah A. Freiseis.