Alvin Valley: ‘Dances With Wolves’
By Mari Davis
Photos by Javier Mateo

NEW YORK, Feb 9, 2005/ FW/ --- According to his press notes, Alvin Valley was inspired by the history of the Native Americans and the West. From it, his collection entitled ‘The Vanishing Race’ was born, easily reminding the audience why Kevin Costner’s ‘Dances With Wolves’ won an Academy Award.

Using the Union Army’s uniforms and the Native American costume as template, Alvin Valley sent out 57 exits and literally gave a new look in American history.

First, there’s the white long coat with black stripes, a definite take from the Union Army’s cavalry unit riding uniform. And there’s the 10-button green suit jacket fitted jacket, another definite take from the Union Army’s enlisted man uniform.

Prints inspired from Native American tribes adorned gowns and dresses, and some of the skirts, floor length or otherwise just remind you of Pocahontas.

It was a very beautiful collection; there is no doubt about that, as the audience applause a lot of the pieces that were presented. But it could use some editing because some of the looks did not make sense.

Take for instance the ruffled polka dot blouse and the gold mini skirt with a diamond motif. Somehow, it did not gel with the rest of the collection.

But there are a lot adorable pieces, like the fuchsia top with little tuck pleats that hugs the bodice. And the tweed and fur trench coat that will surely be bestseller come fall. The hip-length fur coat with wide lapel and cinched at the waist is another hit.

Overall, Alvin Valley presented a more than credible collection. And though this word might be overused in fashion, it was fabulous!

Alvin Valley

Alvin Valley

Alvin Valley

Alvin Valley