PLUS SILVER 925’s CHIC HEELED COMFORT DEBUTS
Words, Images Judith Ecochard
Midtown, NYC
April 15th, 2009
Last week’s presentation of the NYC based Kenneth Cole's Fall lineup for men and women was packed with so many wearable/desirable/well made separates and accessories…THAT
We think consumers more interested in getting a quality, in trend garment…and in reality, a better bang for the buck than the cheaply made hyper trendy stuff at H&M…should take a careful look at KC’s collection when it hits the stores in late summer.
Displayed on mannequins and on portable garment racks, items for practically any age or body type- of fashion aware individuals- were equally serving up versatile office cubicle to buzzin’ nights’ out worthy pieces mixed up with casual attire, carryalls that’ll stylishly hold one’s life, and terrif footwear.
As soon as we entered the spacious, art gallery cool headquarters on 11th Avenue in midtown, we got energized- by the chicly outfitted security detail…in Kenneth Cole (DUH).
The presentation for us---began after trying on the amazingly comfortable, special edition, snazzy silver heeled pumps featuring a patented cushioning system.
It’s a wonder we didn’t walk off with them (our size)---as the pair of kickers did everything a high heeled shoe should…elongate out legs, adding a dose of sex appeal to our ensemble…but cushioning our walked out NY sidewalk feet, courtesy of memory foam---the material so ubiquitous in mattress padding.
There’s also unique flaxseed pillows in the arches to “cradle and support,” soft rubber soles to “enhance flexibility,” and the pumps are lined with sheepskin (huh?) “to breathe a welcome sign of relief.”
Nice.
THE CLOTHES AND ALL:
Kenneth Cole…like DKNY…has a modern edgy city slick vibe.
Guy items include a fab zipped winter heavy leather jacket cool enough for Hells Angels but not a slave to the biker look,
distressed and dressier dark denim jeans, flat front chinos, puffer vests, pocketed wool and cotton front pocketed button downs, sleek black worker perfect black blazer and slacks, and boxy American cut dark suits (wearable separately too)…etc, etc.
Naturally, male friendly messenger bags, snow ready lace up boots with grip rubber trends, polished dark leather slips on and long wool scarves, aviators, and fitted knit caps complete ensembles…the latter providing a pop of color against the largely neutral autumnal palette.
Women’s looks were as equally wearable and contemporary.
Thick and thin leather belts gave feminine shapes to quilted charcoal gray ski jacket, a side button dark tartan above the knee dress,
a multi-pocketed black and white lumberjack plaid mini,
a flowing silk dress in vivid yellow, and a top pick---black leather vest.
Shrunken and boyfriend length blazers smarten up many ensembles…as do a studded chunky heel black leather boots, lace ups inspired by men’s oxfords, silver side buckled and equestrian style boots, and plush satchels in the always correct hobo shape.
Textures were varied…patent leather, metallics, and a subtle black and white animal print.
Tasteful chain link multi color metal necklaces and chandelier style earrings, and grey knit fitted caps and scarves provide more shine and depth to a well thought out collection.
This is as close to idiot proof shopping we can think of. No major chances but enough newness for an economically strained (or restrained) customers.
Truly.
INFO: KENNETH COLE
