With New York Fashion Week S/S 2011 dead and buried, I can confidently state that Cathy Horyn of the New York Times wins my award for best fashion reporter of the season. Although personal blogs can be fun and relatable, Horyn provided accurate, extensive reviews in a relatable tone. What I enjoyed most about Horyn’s writing style was her ability to respectfully criticize major designers such as Ralph Lauren. In one article she states that
“Mr. Lauren, in a fine show on Thursday, added too much beaded fringe, lace and metallic shine in his Western collection for it to be anything other than an appreciative take on the urban cowgirl.” (Horyn)
I respect her tone because she is able to voice her opinion and disagree with a legendary designer without coming off overly offensive. This is an important skill to have since journalists cannot let themselves be blinded by an individual’s reputation or even legacy. Horyn also discusses designers referencing others’ past collections, and what the turn over time should be before this happens. Personally, I think that a clothing designer must allow at least a five-year time span to pass before referencing another designer’s collection in a new show. Anything sooner gives the idea that the designer is dry on ideas and digging around in others’ leftovers for inspiration. Although this may not be true, it is a sensitive subject that must be played with carefully. Ultimately, I prefer when designers display fresh concepts every season, with minimal reference to past looks.
Lula Brown
Reading Journal September 17th, 2010
photo: www.styleite.com
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