Sunday, June 16, 2013

Marc Jacobs and Yves Saint Laurent; A Comparison

   Lately I've been focusing on my math review, and hanging out with my friends. Basically, enjoying summer. But I definitely don't consider writing about fashion as boring, so here I go!
      I collect vintage fashion and news magazines. In an early 60's issue of Newsweek with Laurent on the cover, was probably the best article on him I've ever read. It communicated his philosophy so well, with only a few quotes from himself. Just by saying such straight forward words, he was very clear. St. Laurent spoke about appreciating couture, but at the same time wanting to attract younger customers. Then, houses like Chanel ( Chanel No.5 being the exception) and others decreased in popularity. Dior by Marc Bohan was very successful, though, with the house exanading to baby wear, shoes, and more basic clothing. The name Dior was what was so attractive. Not the actual quality.
        As I read this, it reminded me of Marc Jacobs. By looking at Laurent and Jacob's work, such as Yves Saint Laurent's pop art dresses. But looking farther, they have a similar philosophy. Marc Jacobs is not couture, but it has that high fashion flair and is well made. This brand is mostly geared towards teenagers and young people. Uniqueness and art is a rare thing to find in clothing now, especially when it's slightly cheaper. Popularity of websites like Rookie and the surge in teen fashion blogs makes me really excited about clothing for young people. Teen clothing, especially, is constantly made fun of. Justin Bieber's baggy pants? Something cringe worthy, but certainly not representative of all teens. (THANK GOSHNESS)
        Both of these designers both have and had a a calm quirkiness in their clothing. The Marc Jacob's 60's London inspired spring/summer 2013 collection was different and fun, but still wearable. St. Laurent's white wedding dress with red velvet sleeves was subtle, but managed to be elegant and unique.
    All in all, both of these designers seemed to have fresh ideas for how to revive a bland fashion industry. Some might say these designers did nothing for young fashion, considering that only a  small minority could afford it. But remember what happened with Chanel? Did just a few rich flappers wear her jackets? And everyone else continue on wearing whale bone corsets? Nope. They say the looks of their favorite movie stars and asked their tailors to replicate them. And companies like Sears replicated early Dior-like looks. High fashion greatly influences ready to wear and, sometimes, even Target.

1 comment:

  1. I like this post. you know way more about fashion than I ever will, so some of it flew over my head... Oh well :)
    And it's so cool that you collect vintage fashion mags.

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