Isabel Marant: Independent, Subtle, Brisk & Expressive
By: Contributing Writer

PARIS, Mar 2, 2004/ FW/ --- Isabel Marant's collection can only be summed up with words that describe the bohemian designer: independent, subtle, brisk and expressive!

Isabel proves once again that a collection can be a tremendous success both on and off the runway without having to resort to flashy fabrics, special lights, runway gimmicks or circus freak show clothes presented under the guise of a fashion show.

Her whites, taupe, beiges, purples, violets, plums and burgundies literally exploded onto the runway.

One of her dresses features a near spider's web like pattern on its back panel. That is a must have for girls of a larger bone structure as it slims the female silhouette, making it more feminine.

Marant gives new meaning to the "little black dress" as hers is clearly designed with daywear in mind. Her trench coats have great movement. The collection even includes a wonderful fluffy pink coat done in rabbit's skin.

An ingenious stroke came from the designer in one of her dresses that has both a vest sewn into it and buttons in the back. That allows for the dress to be worn in different ways. It is the perfect addition to any woman's wardrobe as it can be easily relooked and accessorized by simply buttoning it here instead of there. As it came down the runway, I noted three specific ways in which it could be worn. This is the must-have JACKPOT piece from the collection!

Flirting with the more feminine and sexy aspect of a woman's personality and of her own, Isabel presented below the knee capri pants in wool, skirts in charmeuse and leather pants. The transition from one theme to another was smooth sailing for the designer.

True to her own identify as a woman and a designer, Marant somehow manages to imbue each of her collections with her own essence. This naturally attracts a certain type of woman and customer while gently leaving the door open for women with other styles to step into the Isabel Marant closet and fall in love with her creations.

Never one to overstate things, Marant once modestly said, "I do not believe that I did an extraordinary collection. I make things that can be worn".

Most women will be able to find numerous pieces from this collection that will satisfy their urge to be themselves (with just a little help from Isabel).

Marant has a true mastery over her work. This is only due to the fact that unlike numerous designers, Isabel has a real understanding of who she is a woman and what she is really about. She is a champion of liberation and free-thinking. That is translated so well into her collection completed with great vibrato.