J. Mendel: Furs, gowns and a little bit of 'tude
Fashion pundits were predicting that looks from the J. Mendel Fall 2013 collection seen at Lincoln Center will appear on the red carpet at the Academy Awards. (Feb. 13, 2013) Credit: Bruce Gilbert
Though he started as a fur man, Gilles Mendel’s elegant eveningwear has become a staple on the red carpet, and after his show at the tents at Lincoln Center Wednesday afternoon, fashion pundits were predicting that looks from this collection will appear on the red carpet at the Academy Awards. A body conscious blue silk crepe asymmetrical draped gown had everything a star could ever need to make a big statement (save for the Spanx).
The rest of the collection, inspired said notes, by the work of famous German artist, Gerhard Richter, was multilayered and textured, and Mendel’s version of tough luxe -- real swanky, a bit conservative but not without edge. We must admit, it’s hard to take a motorcycle jacket seriously when it’s done up in mink and has a detachable skirt.
Best when Mendel wasn’t trying to reinvent the wheel. A burgundy mink intarsia zippered sweater with a split paneled back topped slim black tailored pants .?.?. gorgeous. A navy metallic fitted blazer and pant ensemble read a little lady, a little rock and roll.
The lush, earthy color palette included copper, moss, rust and Bordeaux, along with bold strokes of scarlet, fuchsia and royal blue was interesting and a little gritty.
Looking forward to seeing you at the Oscars, Mr. Mendel.
