NEW YORK, Sep 18, 2005/ FW/ --- With the Penn State Marching Band opening the show, Marc Jacobs sent out a very youthful collection that can easily be appreciated whether you are 15 or 50, and of course, any age in-between.

Seeing this clever collection that the young and the young-at-heart will love whether they live at the lofts of New York’s Fifth Avenue or in the mansions of Dallas’ Highland Park, it is hard to imagine that it was the same designer who brought grunge on the runway more than a decade ago.

Jacobs whose fashion design career has blossomed early had gone several changes since he launched his eponymous label in 1984. And what we are seeing here is a mature Marc Jacobs – confident with his tailoring techniques and a master of his craft.

Daywear and eveningwear look deceptively simple – empire waist A-line cut with deep V neckline, a double-breasted shirtdress, and wide legged shorts paired with tuxedo jacket top; yet looking at it closely, the construction was more complex as Jacobs added draping and volume to get the exact effect he wanted.

Even the gowns look ‘simple,’ and though it lacks the sexy and sultry looks that celebrities and stars go for in a red carpet affair, do not be surprised if you see one of them during the awards season, because Marc Jacobs accentuated the woman, not the clothes, making sure that it is the wearer is the one who takes center stage and not what she is wearing.

This season, one of the big trends is European aesthetics being seen in all the shows. Marc Jacobs did the exact opposite – created American chic by using European tailoring techniques.

Marc Jacobs

Marc Jacobs

Marc Jacobs