Earth, Wind, and Fire - Donna Karen's Spring 2010 Collection

Donna Karen had a very unique and almost spiritual way in which she designed for this spring collection. Her inspiration stemmed from nature itself and how it sort of moves in, around, and through the clothes. On the one hand - the pieces themselves were structured and imperfect in the upward mobility in the skirts or the architectural draping technique in the hip-cinching blouses (Almost like a dry day in the heat). On the other hand the pieces were very free flowing and breezy (Like a beautiful windy day by the shore). The colors used were very neutral (greys, whites, bieges, soft pinks...) which look great with a hint of a summer tan. In order to fulfill the comfort and sophistication the Donna Karen customer, the designer continues to keep in mind the woman's body in all its shapes and sizes.

Masculine and Feminine Inspirations from the 90s - Dolce and Gabbana Spring 2010

From the makeup to the lavish clothes, I thought Dolce and Gabbana set an interesting bar for Spring 2010. There was certainly a mix from masculine to feminine looks that were so extravagant and well thought out. The immense use of black and white with only hints of color on the runway is so contradictory to what spring is all about, but I say, "why not?" The focus is in the intricate detail, flawless craftsmanship, and depth in the woman's face. Lots of fringe, netting, and lace were noticeable here in addition to the overall demeanor and grace that the clothes evoke. See for yourself:

The Sartorialist Favorites

"The Idea is Something that is both Scary and Pretty" -Cynthia Rowley Spring 2010

Although Cynthia Rowley says that her inspiration is a mix between "pretty and scary", I certainly wouldn't put too much weight on the "scary" aspect of the collection. Who wants to wear something scary anyway? Perhaps "pretty with an attitude" is the more appropriate way of putting it.

Whichever way you want to put it, I adored her Spring Collection. Her career has sparked ever since selling her first collection as a Senior in college at the School of Art Institute of Chicago. Her business and line of products has truly grown ever since then - all the while being a mother to three children! Not only does she embody the successful woman that I aspire to be like, but she repeatedly designs highly sought after clothes each season.

This season we see the same sort of "muse" being portrayed - well-respected young woman whose clothes matches her youthful persona. The shift we notice however is the little rip detail in some of the dresses or the use of black or the faded prints as opposed to pin-sharp prints. Per usual, there were lots of pretty party dresses but I really liked the way she merchandised the separates. Such as the little jackets paired with tailored shorts and the hip-cinching tops paired with skinny pants. The cream booties paired with grey socks were very quaint as well.