Alexander Wang doing Alexander Wang / Pre-Fall 2013

Alexander Wang, one of my ultimate Fashion idols and the recently appointed creative head of Balenciaga, just released his own Pre-Fall Collection for the 2013 Season. Masterfully composed of bulky knits, slickly-cut coats, and beautifully draped monochromatics in rich, tundra greys and crisp whites (in a way only Wang could do), the Collection is a brooding and sophisticated departure from the otherworldliness of Wang's typical aesthetic.

I love Wang's unique ability to play with youthful athletics in such a crisp way; adding really interesting textural elements in subtle ways that become bold when it pops away from all the minimalism. The slight drape over the collarbone, the blocked shoulders, the powdery, dusted sport coats, and the asymmetrical zipper. It's an edge that evokes an air of ultimate chic at the same time; something I absolutely love seeing in Fashion. The pieces are ideal for that spark of coolness that hits just before your Autumn coat needs to come out, and is the perfect Collection for the inner-city woman both professional and artistic. It's divine, and all I can say is that I really wish I could wear that sleeveless military coat!

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Alexander Wang, Spring/Summer 2013 // Full Show

Athletic Wear meets Chic Urbanity is the only way we can describe design-phenom Alexander Wang's bright and fresh direction at his Spring 2013 showcase at New York Fashion Week. Bermuda shorts, over-sized windbreakers, and glossy boots of an almost Grecian shape ground almost every look this year; while the true majesty of the Collection is, in true Wang style, in the brilliant detailing. 

Watch each piece closely - the geometric shaping and rigid lines are absolutely stunning in an aesthetic that's almost space-aged. On some garments the pieces themselves appear to be almost floating around the body, as opposed to being worn. Accented with brilliant silver metal hardware with a constant repeat of bold shapes that echo the shapes of the clothing, as well as the monochromatic palette; the Collection is stark, powerful, and stoic, but still very bright. I love the idea of creating what seems like printed texture and graphics by cutting the fabric itself; as opposed to printing alone, which has been so popular these last two seasons. Wang has literally taken incredible garment pieces, like his over-sized coats and billowing boyfriend shirts, and cut geometric patterns into them. The textural potential in terms wearability and colour is enormous; the piece becomes so much more than just what it is on the runway.

Wait till the very end of the presentation above for a fantastic visual treat courtesy of Mr. Wang. Just another reason he is simultaneously one of the most refined yet unique designers in the world right now. Everything is in the details, take a closer look, and add a bit of whimsy.

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