~ HI TECH MODA ~
~ NYFW ~
By Kristina Christopher
Copa Style Magazine Events Correspondent
|
HI TECH MODA (Saturday, 5pm)
Set against the backdrop of Gotham Hall, with all its grandeur, Hi Tech Moda was my first show of NYFW. An eclectic audience filled the rows of Chivari chairs, dressed mostly in some combination of denim, bomber jackets, blazers, or maybe the occasional (oversized) skirt. I was frankly surprised. Here in DC we are known for our sartorial conservatism, but when it comes to our fashion shows we dress to impress! Belle Le Chic
The 1st designer, Belle Le Chic, put forth some truly beautiful summer dresses, with flowing fabrics and vibrant hues. Not necessarily the most creative effort I saw this weekend (I was reminded of the famous Devil Wears Prada quote “Florals? For spring?”), however they were quite lovely, and I could easily see myself wearing any of them. I especially enjoyed the opening dress with its pink and gold color combination with dramatic bell sleeves, as well as a blue and green maxi dress with spaghetti straps and a laced-up front. The final haram-style look in bright turquoise blue and sea green, full pants paired with ab midriff-baring halter top, turned out to be a precursor to the next designer. Rassa Nani
Some similarities with the previous designer, in the sense that both seemed to draw inspiration from styles and colors from Africa or perhaps India. In this case, the designer chose fabrics with a high level of sheen, and seemed to favor capes, whether the traditional kind flowing from the shoulders or, in some cases, fastened to the closure at the back of the neck. The closing look was my favorite one, somewhat ironically as it differed so greatly from the rest of the collection – a 19th century kind of look, with a corset/bustier style top paired with a full flowing skirt, shimmering with a rainbow of colors, the most predominant being purple. I was reminded of something that I would see at the Renaissance Fair (in a good way). Norma Nazario Designer
Definitely a show-stopper! Not necessarily for the designs, but the presentation. The first model (male, very rare in this particular show overall) stepped out wearing all black and a very interesting type of mask, which he modeled in time to a dramatic score against a backdrop of screens showing what I can only describe as dreamscapes. It was as though we had all entered a fantasy world and the models walking the runway were all characters in a storyline, reminiscent of Midsummer Night’s Dream. While I enjoyed one look in a black and yellow pattern, similar to a maxi dress but with the skirt cut into multiple pieces, and a long sash down the back…by this time we had seen so many capes, sashes, etc. that it ceased to be noticeable. I will give the models in this show credit for their slow, steady movement that appeared to have been choreographed in time to the music. Carlos Benguigui
High above the stage, two curtains moved to reveal a singer in a long green, sparkling gown who performed an entire song prior to the models walking. To me the vocalization style was reminiscent of the Middle East, or perhaps Spain, or India. A quick google search unearthed many suggested names for the style of vocalization: Taan, attributed to Hindustani classical music; Nauba, Arabian; Nasheed, Islamic; or Afila, aka Cante Flamenco, Spain. By comparison, the rest of the show evoked the punk-rock era of the 1980’s, almost a tribute to Vivienne Westwood, if you will. The contrast was quite startling! Moto jackets, army surplus type jackets with chains and epaulets, zebra-print, marched down the runway on a cadre of predominantly male models. The speakers pumped out music from the early-punk era at very high volume! While I do not necessarily see myself wearing these pieces anytime soon, I have much respect for the bold designs and creative presentation. |
Marc De Fang
Jumpsuits dominated this collection, embellished with feathers, sequins, and ruffles in a vibrant array of vivid colors. We saw more “haram” pants and flowing capes emanating from the neckline, or perhaps from one shoulder in an asymmetrical pattern. The few dresses in the collection tended to be mini dresses, enhanced with balloon sleeves, or perhaps a feathered top. The one exception to this was a maxi dress with spaghetti straps, what I would call a “Grecian” style, pleated throughout and shimmering with rainbow hues. Belle Black
Perhaps the most unique collection in this show! In contrast to the previous collections with their vivid hues and shimmering fabric, this collection featured very matte neutral tones in textured fabrics. With some exceptions, I would say that the material used was probably linen, or cotton. It still flowed well but was not nearly as translucent or shiny as in the previous collections. A striking feature was that many of the tops had been cut almost to look like rags that had somehow been stitched together. Several looks paired tops (one reminding me of a bandanna I used to wear around my head) with simple denim. One dress looked to me as though the model was wearing a paper bag, with another floral dress underneath, all of it tied together at the top of one shoulder. I appreciate that many of the dresses were roomy (bordering on baggy), which allowed for freedom of movement. Perhaps it was the back drop of Afro-inspired beats, but I could easily imagine wearing these designs in a hot, sultry climate. 
|
Randhawa Brands
For me, the most anticipated designer of the night, Amna Inam did not disappoint. Full disclosure, I personally know many of the models who were walking, as this brand is based right here in the DMV. That being said, I honestly found the presentation to be one of the most unique that I saw, and while we enjoyed many designs influenced by international styles, Inam’s designs are distinctly South Asian. Also featuring vocal stylings suggestive of Taan, Nauba, Nasheed, or Afila, the vocalist remained on the runway floor for the entire show and interacted with each model. Models twirled to showcase the flow of the fabric, the designs themselves a modern update on the traditional Sari. It was an excellent way to close out the show!
For me, the most anticipated designer of the night, Amna Inam did not disappoint. Full disclosure, I personally know many of the models who were walking, as this brand is based right here in the DMV. That being said, I honestly found the presentation to be one of the most unique that I saw, and while we enjoyed many designs influenced by international styles, Inam’s designs are distinctly South Asian. Also featuring vocal stylings suggestive of Taan, Nauba, Nasheed, or Afila, the vocalist remained on the runway floor for the entire show and interacted with each model. Models twirled to showcase the flow of the fabric, the designs themselves a modern update on the traditional Sari. It was an excellent way to close out the show!
Layout By Rodney Wayne Branche