Breaking the ‘black barrier’

At the recent New York Fashion Week, white, sheer and lot of flower prints brought in the post-recession cheer.

A far cry from the blacks and greys that dominate the western runways, designers flocked to an optimistic white and lot of sherbet hues and romantic sheer at the recent New York Fashion Week. Here’s looking at some of the top trends on the runway.

Alexander Wang

Alexander Wang showed a collection of mostly white pieces that covered the runway like a dropcloth. Copper patches gave some edge to some looks that were otherwise all white.

Jill Stuart

Stuart turned out a collection of some chic spring outerwear and the trend-right tuxedo and satiny high-neck blouses.

Nicole Miller

Nicole Miller went for an elegant, layered look. Thin fabrics were used in a subdued palette, ranging from ivory to gray to black.

Vivienne Tam

The collection was heavy on lace and patchwork in a slouchy, loose style that gave off a modern bohemian vibefit for a global traveller.

Prabal Gurung

The young designer took a bit of a risk by starting with colourblocked cashmere knits. Styles included a slim-fitting white scuba sheath with blue satin inserts, or an ivory silk crepe version with asymmetrical tulle inserts.

Tommy Hilfiger

The designer offered eyelet tennis skirts, varsity-tipped sweaters, sunny halters and fitted, feminine button-down shirts. A khaki-coloured halter dress with a tie-style back was a nod to the trench trend.

Diane Von Furstenberg

There was more than one outfit that borrowed from the ancient Greek kind. “It’s a little new for me, it’s very fresh, and there’s a lot of casual,” Von Furstenberg said backstage.

Carolina Herrera

Herrera looked to Korea for inspiration, and some models wore black straw hats traditionally used by male farmers, and many also had their waists cinched by elaborate acetate belts.