Michigan Avenue - Niche Media - Michigan Avenue magazine is a luxury lifestyle magazine centered around Chicago’s finest people, events, fashion, health & beauty, fine dining & more!
Issue link: http://digital.greengale.com/i/61757
The Look modern movement GEOMETRIC PRINTS AND LINEAR ACCESSORIES MAKE FOR A VIBRANT SPRING. by alison rowe I n a season where sartorial themes run the gamut from underwater fantasy to bared midriffs, there is possibly no trend better suited to our Windy City than designs inspired by geometric shapes reminiscent of the architectural structures of Chicago's Frank Lloyd Wright, Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, and Bruce Graham. "We live in a city where modern architecture is at the root of [fashion's] personality and where the dominating styles of the 1900s were born," says Mallory Ulaszek, owner of CB boutique in Lake Forest and City Blue in Old Town. "The sleek and steely skyscraper that the world is so familiar with was a model for technology-inspired designs, and simplicity was in the detail." Example after example of geometric style walked the runway for spring, each with its own incarnation: Carolina Herrera incorporated a Bauhaus- driven theme into breezy dresses, striking knits, and accessories; Proenza Schouler's offerings took on a more tribal feel with an earth-toned color palette; geometric elements played out both in Balenciaga's structural out- erwear and in colorful bursts at J. Mendel, while Narciso Rodriguez gave us a decidedly less structured adaptation. Tank ($190) and pants ($270), Cut25. CB, 662 N. Western Ave., Lake Forest, 312-664-2222; shopcityblue.com The Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Robie House. So whether you're taking in the Cy Twombly exhibit at the Art Institute, stopping by The Rookery, or touring Robie House, take an inspirational note from the runways for pitch-perfect fashion. MA MaLLory ULaszek owner, cb 662 N. Western Ave., Lake Forest, 847-283-8888; shopcityblue.com Who are some of your favorite designers to incorporate the geometric trend into their designs this season? Both Sass & Bide and Cut25's collections (not just this season) have clean lines and architecturally inspired patterns. When you mix this trend with colors, patterns, and textures like these designers have, it becomes playful and whimsical. Why is this a perfect trend now that it's getting warmer outside? When you apply color to such architectural designs, the pieces literally come to life—the perfect complement to the more vibrant colors of nature in spring. Every detail can be seen. And with the addition of pop colors that so many designers are leaning toward, the pieces have much more personality. Where is the perfect place to wear this trend? Anywhere you want to make a statement. Patterns and color help the wearer exude confidence. 86 michiganavemag.com Cuff, Kara by Kara Ross ($375). Henri Bendel, Water Tower Place, 312-951-1928; kararossny.com Silk Brenda dress, BCBG Max Azria ($458). bcbg.com Cabas Chyc handbag, Yves Saint Laurent ($2,150). ysl.com Faud heel, Manolo Blahnik ($825). manoloblahnik.com