The appointment of Alexander Wang as the guest designer for Burberry's Spring/Summer 2017 collection sent shockwaves through the fashion world. A bold move by then-CEO Christopher Bailey, the collaboration aimed to inject a dose of Wang's signature edgy minimalism into the traditionally more classic and heritage-focused Burberry aesthetic. The result, the Alexander Wang Spring 2017 Ready-to-Wear collection, was a fascinating – and ultimately fleeting – experiment in brand fusion, leaving behind a legacy that continues to be debated and analyzed within the fashion industry. This article explores the collection, its runway presentation, the beauty choices, the models involved, the critical reception, and its impact on the perceptions of both Burberry and Alexander Wang himself. We will also briefly touch upon Burberry's brand evolution around 2014 and explore who still wears the brand today.
The Collection: A Clash of Aesthetics
The Alexander Wang Spring 2017 collection for Burberry was a striking juxtaposition of two distinct design philosophies. Wang, known for his darkly romantic, street-infused minimalism, took on the challenge of reinterpreting Burberry's iconic heritage pieces. The result was a collection that felt simultaneously familiar and utterly unexpected. While traditional Burberry elements like trench coats and plaid were present, they were reimagined through Wang's lens. Trench coats were deconstructed, appearing frayed or cropped, while the iconic plaid was manipulated, appearing in unexpected color combinations and applied to unexpected garments.
The runway looks showcased a range of silhouettes, from oversized, slouchy outerwear to more fitted, body-conscious pieces. There were oversized hoodies paired with tailored trousers, revealing a play between casual comfort and sharp tailoring. The use of leather, a staple in Wang's own collections, added a rebellious edge to the otherwise polished aesthetic. Many pieces featured exposed seams and raw edges, further emphasizing the deconstructed approach. The color palette leaned towards muted tones – blacks, greys, navys – punctuated by pops of brighter colors, like a vibrant crimson or a sunny yellow. These injections of color served to highlight the unexpected details and the overall rebellious energy of the collection.
Runway Presentation: A Spectacle of Youthful Energy
The presentation itself was a significant part of the collection's impact. Held during London Fashion Week, the show was characterized by a youthful energy and a sense of raw, unpolished cool. The models, a diverse group of young faces, walked with a confident swagger, reflecting the attitude of the clothes. The casting reflected Wang's own preference for a more diverse and inclusive representation of beauty, a departure from the sometimes more homogenous aesthetic often associated with traditional luxury brands. The overall atmosphere was less about pristine perfection and more about a celebration of individuality and a slightly rebellious spirit. This was a significant departure from the more traditionally polished presentations often associated with Burberry's previous collections.
Beauty: A Grunge-Infused Minimalism
The beauty look for the show complemented the collection's overall aesthetic perfectly. Hair was styled in a deliberately undone manner, with loose waves and slightly messy textures. Makeup was minimal and natural, emphasizing a healthy, youthful glow. The overall effect was a grunge-infused minimalism that perfectly balanced the collection's contrasting elements. This low-key approach to beauty allowed the clothes to take center stage, preventing any visual distraction from the innovative designs. The lack of heavy makeup further amplified the youthful and relatable image projected by the models.
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