Famous Models: NY Fashion Week Fall 2011: Rodarte, J. Mendel

Wheat Fields, Metallics, sequins, More Fur!, Art Deco 1920's Elegance...More NY Fashion week Fall 2011 Highlights!

House on the Rodarte Prairie: Rodarte Fall 2011

Rodarte Fall 2011

Leather Tanner: Rodarte Fall 2011

For Rodarte Fall 2011, the dynamic design duo of sister Kate and Laura Mulleavy, were inspired by the prairie wheat fields. There were several "Prairie Coats", silk mousseline gowns with "exploding" wheat prints at the hems and dresses with "aprons" featuring geometric graphics--it was very "True Grit" Couture-meets-Little House On the Prairie Luxe. The collection seemed almost a departure from what we've seen in the past, in terms of their "Arts-&-Crafty"-a-woolen-knot-here-and-a-twisted-tulle-there dresses. It almost looked (wait for it) more sell-able and commercial. Well, as "commercial" as Rodarte's almost one-of-a-kind pieces can be. Below--and above--are some standouts.

Wheat Gown: Rodarte Fall 2011

Do-Si-Do Square Dancing: Rodarte Fall 2011

We're Not In Kansas Anymore: Rodarte Fall 2011

Click below to watch FULL Runway Show of Rodarte Fall 2011:

J. Mendel Fall 2011:

1920's Goddess: J. Mendel Fall 2011

Dapper J. Mendel Designer Gilles Mendel said that he was influenced by his father's collection of aboriginal art as well as the tribal body art of the indigenous Australians, which he also noted reminded him of Art Deco Architecture--go figure! Yes, we designers can be influenced and inspired by A LOT of things. If this was John Galliano or Jean Paul Gaultier, well, you can only IMAGINE what those models--and the clothes--would look like! However, under Mendel's restrained and elegant tutelage, it became an elegantly subtle inspiration that morphed into silky 1920's gowns featuring geometrically-cut sequins as well as lots of furs--which is something the house knows a thing or two about since it's their "thang"! The collection was GORGEOUS! Take a look: