So Long 80’s – Welcome Daisies

Go ahead, peel off your winter garbs and slip into something more comfortable. As we get re-acquainted with spring, 80’s silhouettes fade away, leaving behind a bright palette to be remembered by. Rich hues, voluminous sleeves, bold lines and a new twist on formal wear are in bloom. Dresses are also back, except this spring expect to see more-long-than-short.

80’s rainbow coalition is dancing with dresses this season. Rich shades of green, purple, yellow and a magnificent blend of orange seeping into red are giving blossoming flowers competition. In some cases, the sidewalk may hold more petals than Botanical Gardens, as big floral prints accentuate empire waist silhouettes. This translation of spring can be seen from Givency to Old Navy.

Designers inspired by spring’s refreshing quality, like Roberto Cavalli, showcased an array of white airy dresses at Fashion Week. A feeling of flirty naiveté was in the air, and Jovovich-Hawk also got a sniff. In a limited contract with mass retailer, Target, Jovovich-Hawk’s own whimsical interpretations of this trend can make a home in your closet for a reasonable price.

Bustles, voluminous sleeves, ruffles, lace and pomp all come together for an urban Marie Antoinette rendition. Expect to see a continued emphasis on high waist, while more detailing appears on everything above. Above-the-knee cuffed pants are also back with a more casual twist.

Detail to upper-body can be seen with the emergence of 90’s mania. Yes –shoulder pads are slowly making a come-back. Fusing the needs of working women and those who are more adventurous. The juxtaposition of bold shoulder lines and slim bottoms – whether pants, shiny tights, or pencil skirts – makes for a fierce combination.

Suit dreams are made of these, have no fear if the 90’s isn’t your cup-of-tea. The men’s club is now open to the ladies, strong formal looks with a feminine twist make dressing professional this spring a sassy affair. Vests, tuxedo shirts, high-waisted trousers, and other basic suit pieces, are emerging at many retailers. Worn with softly draped separates make for plenty of stylish wares from boardroom to happy hour.

Whatever mood, inspiration or occasion blossoms this spring, have no fear, the right outfit is near.

Until next season,

Sahar Parirokh

Frock Out was held in December 6th and featured twelve of Denver’s most talented designers who were busy for three months creating fashions for this runway show competition – Fresh City Life’s first annual fund raising event!

And the winner was Stephanie Ohnmacht! Check out our interview with Stephanie on fashion and life. Photos feature Ohnmacht’s designs on her model Marion Brant.

Twelve of Denver’s most talented designers have been busy for three months creating fashions for this runway show competition – Fresh City Life’s first annual fund raising event.

How long have you been designing and what inspired you to begin?

My family was a sewing and crafty family. Once I could reach the sewing pedal I was given all the scrap fabric they didn’t want, to sew whatever silly creations I could come up with.

What are some of your biggest inspirations in fashion?

My vision is driven by everyday events and occasions that demand fabulous garments. I pull silhouette and structure concepts from fashion magazines and retro fashion look-books.

Where do you see fashion trends heading as we get into spring?

Finally we can think about shedding the layers of winter. I look forward to seeing skirts and dresses with lots of movement, botanical prints with lots of color and short hemlines.

What does your design space look like?

My current design ’studio’ used to be my dining room. I out grew my home office and had to spread out. I can’t wait to have my dining room back and have a real studio.

Where do you see fashion going for Denver?

Denver is continually evolving into a fashion community that is taking notice of local designers and is willing to take risks and show individual style.

Who are your favorite bag and shoe designers?

I love shoes and can not get enough of them. If only I had enough space to store them. My latest favorite is BCBG Girls. I do appreciate a great handbag but I am very utilitarian and rarely buy a bag and it’s usually under $50.

What 3 items in your closet can you not live without?

Only 3 items? Ummm, a basic black top, coordinating skirt and black heels. Oh, and what about those skeletons?

What are some challenges that you face as a designer?

I think I can speak for all independent designers and boldly say that we all have a hard time making money at what we love so much and it makes it even more challenging when we have to juggle different jobs to make ends meet.

3 Things if stranded on an island?

Music, sunscreen, matches

What are your goals for 2008 and fashion?

I am going to continue to purse fashion as money-making career and work towards creating a ready-to-wear women’s clothing line.

Model:
Marion Brant

Photo Credit:

Red/White:  Felicia Ohnmacht

White/ Green: Jeff Fyer

Kirsty Saalfrank