Over the weekend, my faithful sidekick, Bookman agreed - even in a convincing tone of voice - that it would be a thrill to attend Black V, sponsored by Astonish Magazine and hosted Madrone Studios. I was instantly enamored by the visual juxtaposition of a dark palette against a stark, white runway space as we continue to enjoy the Spring/Summer and Resort Season.
This year, the show was on Saturday, May 21st and began with a static and stunning cocktail hour, while guests were able to admire the lithe models who were attired in designer Phuong My's work, while showing off their own masquerade attire, which allowed attendees to contribute to the sultry, noir ambiance.
I chose to play with bright colors mixed with dark statement pieces, paying homage to the haunting brilliance of my favorite designers - some who left we mere mortals but a relative glimpse of their talent before the beauty of all that is fleeting left us in the Twilight of their absence.
Madame Kufu Parlor of Incognito designed the formed, leather mask (I am fortunate to possess four of these magnificent pieces) and pair it with Alexander McQueen's leather D-ring jacket, from his 2002 F/W collection, which was quite influenced by The Mission and the details of the Spanish Armor. This jacket was a favorite of St. Isabella Blow, and continues to be one of my most coveted, as well!
The dress is Vivienne Westwood Anglomania, black and bold metallic swaths in the most body-skimming jersey, if you dare. Hot pink tights by Wolford, and turquoise, "disco ball" Prive 120 Louboutin slingbacks + a delicately woven Paul Smith Japanese edition floral scarf kept me from getting lost in the sea of beautiful black ensembles!
Support local and emerging designers; rejoice in the variety of moods one can conjure in a single outfit, and never fear emancipating yourself from cookie-cutter stores. Trends come and go; others refuse to retire (much to my chagrin) but your own imagination is ALWAYS in style.
Darkly yours,
The Mad Hattrix
This year, the show was on Saturday, May 21st and began with a static and stunning cocktail hour, while guests were able to admire the lithe models who were attired in designer Phuong My's work, while showing off their own masquerade attire, which allowed attendees to contribute to the sultry, noir ambiance.
Madame Kufu Parlor of Incognito designed the formed, leather mask (I am fortunate to possess four of these magnificent pieces) and pair it with Alexander McQueen's leather D-ring jacket, from his 2002 F/W collection, which was quite influenced by The Mission and the details of the Spanish Armor. This jacket was a favorite of St. Isabella Blow, and continues to be one of my most coveted, as well!
The dress is Vivienne Westwood Anglomania, black and bold metallic swaths in the most body-skimming jersey, if you dare. Hot pink tights by Wolford, and turquoise, "disco ball" Prive 120 Louboutin slingbacks + a delicately woven Paul Smith Japanese edition floral scarf kept me from getting lost in the sea of beautiful black ensembles!
Support local and emerging designers; rejoice in the variety of moods one can conjure in a single outfit, and never fear emancipating yourself from cookie-cutter stores. Trends come and go; others refuse to retire (much to my chagrin) but your own imagination is ALWAYS in style.
Darkly yours,
The Mad Hattrix
