Fashion pioneer Vivienne Tam is known for her creative strategies in merging fashion and technology while incorporating storylines in her designs. She takes it one step further by leading her audience on a journey through culture and timelessness while paying homage to the indigenous peoples who inspired her design concepts. Her FALL/WINTER 2018 collection presented on Feb. 13th, 2018 is not only artistic, but technologically innovative. She is in a lane of her own, constantly challenging people to a more advanced perception in the utilization of fashion.
Tam’s FALL/WINTER 2018 collection represented an exploration of art and culture through regions of mystical landscapes dedicated to the indigenous cultures of the Himalayas, Mongolia and Tibet. Her consistent use of colorful details and symbolism were the very essence of these landscapes, and added so much personality to a very muted and earthy color palette. The collection’s palette varied in unique hues of burnt orange, earthy khaki, red, burgundy, brown, blue, deep turquoise, Tara green and black and white. They were presented in wool, silk, corduroy, tulle mesh and lace. The creative construction of her designs offered jackets detachable from the back of garments and played with simple details such as pocket placements, layers, sleeves, collars, hems and hoods. Tam took the time to make even the smallest details useful in the wearability of her designs, not just focusing on the aesthetic.
The evening began with a mesmerizing Mandala backdrop and Asian techno sound bite which immediately captivated the attention of the audience. Tam’s first model kicked her way down the runway in a high, detailed, black turtleneck sweater that covered half her face leaving visible only a daunting stare from her eyes. The next model glided down the runway in a long and flowing deep turquoise skirt, with a fur, puffed-sleeve coat layered with a light jean jacket underneath.
This 2018 Collection also included multi-layered jackets and garments and long, loose silhouettes. In addition there were mix-matched patterns such as stripes and plaid, belted jackets and fringed sweaters, along with oversized coats, puffy sleeved coats, trench coats, and Mongolian fur parkas. Disproportionate hemlines, colorful strings with pops of bright colors, were featured along with color blocking, floral prints, billowy, wide-leg pants, wrap scarves, and flowy skirts. Tam’s designs were boldly accessorized with cross body bags, embroidered traditional Mandalas, the Green Tara muse and handmade, beaded earrings. Some of the construction details and the color palette seemed to have been inspired by the 70’s fashion era which definitely fit into the overall aesthetic of her designs.
Tam is one of the most intelligent designers on the fashion scene. What she presents to the industry never fails to be one step ahead of the game. Her strategy in merging technological innovations, smart textiles and wearable electronics keep her collections fun, witty, cultured and interesting. Her designs are not only original and wearable, but also useful and convenient. Vivienne Tam is indeed a fashion visionary.
Creative Credits
- Written by
- Dominique Slaughter
- Image courtesy
- Vivienne Tam
- Photography
- Dan Lecca
