Prabal Gurung
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Prabal Gurung presented a S/S 2015 collection that was both architecturally sophisticated and beautifully wearable. Intellectually compelling design components—peekaboo slits, flowing chiffon sashes, fluttering ostrich feathers, insets of contrasting fabrications—were all carefully balanced with an asymmetrical complexity. The intersection of strong diagonal, geometric lines with soft feminine florals created a tension within his dresses, frequently complemented with sleek racer-back tees, a reference to Gurung’s harnesses from seasons past.
Gurung explained that this collection was an evolution of last season’s Himalayan journey. “It’s a global trek; a trippy trip back in the mountains. The woman I design for is very curious. She loves fashion, but she also is passionate about what is happening around the world. So the collection is a visual diary of her trek, from the white, snow-capped mountains to the exuberant colors and textures.”
A cadre of models graced Gurung’s front row, including Lily Aldridge, Gigi Hadid, and Elettra Rossellini Wiedemann. Aldridge, who will walk in the Fashion Rocks show this week along with Hadid, is preparing for her Victoria’s Secret show in London. “I’ve worn Prabal’s designs to many occasions,” Aldridge said. “His clothes are womanly but also with some quirky design to make them special. And personally, he’s so much fun, such a beautiful spirit.”
“I’ve known Prabal for about 10 years,” explained Wiedemann. “For my first big American campaign, he was one of the co-designers for Bill Blass. I just love him so much. He’s a great guy and what he does is so strong, wearable and beautiful.”
But Gurung has plenty of supporters outside the fashion world—Michelle Obama once again wore a Gurung dress, this time to the U.S. African Leaders Summit, in August. Gurung described the honor with customary humility: “It’s bigger than who I am; it’s a great reflection on where I’m from and it gives hope to people back home in Nepal.”
For more from New York Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2015, click here
