Viktor & Rolf: The Art of Layering
By Mari Davis
(Photos by Javier Mateo)
PARIS, Mar 10, 2003/ FW/ --- For Fall 2003, Viktor & Rolf's theme is 'layering', which
is reminiscent of their Fall 1999 Haute Couture collection that made them Paris' rising
stars.
If you remember fashion history, during the Haute Couture Fall 1999 season,
the duo went out on the runway with one model whom they dressed in nine layers of clothes -
actually their whole collection!
As each layer was peeled off, a new garment is exposed.
Viktor & Rolf's Fall 2003 show held at Porte de la Chapelle was not as elaborate as the original,
but follows the same concept.
Models were dressed in several layers of tops and blouses giving the effect of multi-layered
collars.
The effect was artful in terms of aesthetics. In terms of practicality, you will always be
warm during those cool autumn nights.
Notable piece was the brown pants and jacket set with a denim vest.
The designers broke new grounds in fashion with the use of 'runched piping'. From afar, it
looked like they were ruffles. Closer inspection showed that it was 'piping' finish.
Hence, it did not look 'girlie' but rather sartorial.
The designers also sent cargo pants on the runway for a more casual look in a collection
where the generously cut pants were more on the formal side.
They also did an interesting take on the shirt dress, sending Stella Tennant on the runway in
a midnight blue shirt dress with slashed sleeves and thin necktie.
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