If you want to reflect on the way fashion use to be at the turn of the last century, a TOME show isn’t a bad place to start. Ramon Martin and Ryan Lobo conjured up the past, an immaculate tribute and revisit into the worlds of Donna Karan and Anne Teresa De Keersmaeker.
That’s because they are hell-bent on re-creating the glorious beginnings of sensible American fashion. Today’s ideas were about remaking classics – an overcoat dress, PVC jackets and a pair of lean trousers for the road. The camel coat even made an appearance, reincarnated and updated for the times.
So redefining, in fact, that you could only ponder at the nostalgia in which this collection runs. Not often do designers declare their inspiration and muses directly to another designer. Ramon and Ryan must clearly believe one has to look to the past to take on the movers of the future. Their women were all regal, dignified and powerful – an effortless dress paired with boxy jackets.
It was kind of refined. And, when the models took on the pieces with ease, it hinted at the heydays of Cindy, Claudia and Naomi. A banker’s striped dress with matching black turtleneck? There is a museum somewhere that is craving a visit from this discerning customer.
