It feels strange to write about fashion because it’s been years since I felt compelled to. Oversaturation in the digital space made me apathetic at worst and at best, afraid of contributing to the noise—but like most, I was tired of runway shows as they were. With six productions churned out every year, there was little breathing room to appreciate what was just seen. Just look after look for the sake of the calendar—all beautiful and awe-inspiring for the sheer work behind the scenes—but I was jaded. (And to think: I’ve only ever been a bystander worlds away from Fashion-with-a-capital-F.)
But like everyone else, I’ve fallen head over heels for Jacquemus. Season after season I subscribed to the magic: fashion darling Simon Porte Jacquemus had a vision, and it was one that transcended above all else. His clothes are effortless and unbothered, sensual and unfussy. There are no games, nor are there illusions: just designs that showcase the woman wearing it. I see his clothes and behind them is a man who actually loves and reveres women for more than just her female form. That’s the difference, and it’s palpable.
Even from behind a screen in New Jersey suburbia.
Looks 1, 3, 5, 7
Look 1: Imagine this as a dress for a late-summer wedding. This first look demonstrates what Jacquemus excels at: effortless lines and uncomplicated silhouettes. Simplicity at its finest.
Look 3: An all-white, semi-sheer pairing is the ultimate summer outfit. I love the asymmetry of the crop top; it mimics how I (hastily) tuck in shirts when the heat becomes unbearable (or in dance class, because a girl needs breeze and coverage at the same time). Just a sliver of skin; it’s sensual and carefree.
Look 5: Everything about this is drool-worthy. The bustier-inspired shirt—undeniably sexy, but also sensible with the contrast in volume—and that pleated wrap skirt! All elements are taken from classic staples but completely deconstructed to show more skin without vulgarity. It’s exactly what I want to wear (down to the flip-flops); where to is the only question.
Look 7: Effortlessness will be an overused word for lack of a better descriptor (on my part). Again, it’s all about the ties, tucking, and knotting, like how a woman in real life would put together her look on a hot day.
Looks 10, 13, 25, 31
Look 10: There’s a running theme with these two-piece ensembles, and each one is just as noteworthy as the one before. Jacquemus has perfected the art of wearable, figure-flattering proportions that suit all regardless of shape or size. Tops are tiny but feel balanced with more masculine cuts, bottoms sit at the waist to highlight the center. This, too, is a look I want to wear at least one day a week. That peek-a-boo of hip is just delightful. The skin! The strategy!
Look 13: I love Jacquemus’s interpretation of men’s clothes just as much as I do his vision for women. The color palette in this runway show is beautiful, and this styling is one I would wear in a heartbeat with a pair of platform Stan Smith’s.
Look 25: The silhouette of the shirt gives the shoulders a soft strength while accentuating the waistline. This is another favorite look; the blue hues and fabrics are dreamy.
Look 31: Another look I’d wear in a heartbeat. Again, the cut, fabrics, and colors are exquisite.
Looks 42, 48, 50, 51
Look 42: Imagine wearing this on a summer night’s out (in a pre/post-COVID world). The movement of this skirt—oh, the tassels!—is begging to be danced in.
Look 48: This is the ultimate day-to-night affair; think late lunch turned into dinner and drinks because the conversation is too good to notice the time. (Also, that little sliver of a gold strap over one hip: I’m completely enamored by the repetition of this design that might be missed in a blink of an eye, but when you do see it, you marvel in the detail.)
Look 50: It’s risquĂ© certainly—but it’s done sans vulgarity. The juxtaposition of volume with a tiny tube top, paired with a relaxed skirt, makes the look just right.
Look 51: Another perfect example of juxtaposition the Jacqumemus way. This idea of masculine suiting (which I want to wear to work all autumn long) isn’t original, but the devil is in the styling: a leather harness and strappy shoes offset the density with simple lines and utmost delicacy.
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xx
{images via}
Your turn. Thoughts?