A Fashion Show That Deserves To Be A Harvard Business School Plan On What To Do
Text, Images by J. Ecochard
American photographers hanging around the media riser got a few chuckles during the pre-show models’ run thru for Hugo Boss’s Spring 2008 Collection in the magnificently ornate, former booking hall of the Cunard Line (at the Cunard Building, 25 Broadway, NYC) The October 17th fashion show was strictly choreographed by a headphone wearing German Producer…who’s heavily accent English brought back memories of Colonel Wilhelm Klink of TV show Hogan’s Heroes. However, this guy directed a show…with results of polished perfection… impressing jaded editorial fashionistas returning to the States after the season's European runway jaunts.
Entering the dramatic, high ceiling, marine themed marble lobby, guests were greeted by straight-backed waiters wielding Moet Chandon Champagne poured from appropriately chilled Jeroboams. This being a European show, all were encouraged to keep their glasses full and able to carry the delicious beverages with them into the Renaissance Revival giant Hall outfitted with stadium metal seating. How civilized –and the bubbly banished any negative thoughts over the WAIT.
The men’s and women’s line itself served up a sparkling cocktail blend of updated classics mixed with attitude in the precise tailoring and premium fabrics Hugo Boss is known for. A man’s slim cut single breast dark gray suit with black silk tie, and a broad shoulder, white double breasted woman’s suit jacket, with a crisp soft gray shirt with wide spread white collar and gray narrow pants cropped at the ankles, were standouts. A shimmery silver metallic blouson with deep square neckline that would flatter many body types stood out on the model sporting short slicked back hair. The top was ideal symmetry for the Hugo Boss signature low waist, flat front, side pocketed slim fit pants, again hemmed to reveal ankles and sculptural patent leather high-heeled pumps. Frankly, it was a relief to see this flattering silhouette as so many Spring 2008 looks from other designers- seemed derivative with the high waist, pleated front, flared legged pants typified by the 70's Annie Hall clones. Lastly, a deep V necked belted or one shouldered gowns in flowing black and deep purple jersey silks, boldly ended the show.
Afterwards, guests were led to a darkened side hall, imaginatively set with black leather couches, chairs and curios that would have made Edgar Allan Poe or Oscar Wilde- feel right at home. Open bars featuring German beers (yeah!), a lavish buffet spread including a fresh, just off- the- boat succulent raw fish bar, and most amazingly of all, a twenty minute musical set by clarinetist Woody Allen (yup, the director/actor/writer) and his New Orleans jazz band …all were an unbelievable finish to an evening where the fusion of fashion, art and commerce was authentic and not pretentiously forced.