For a generation that’s done grunge to the max, even playing Smashing Pumpkins as first songs at their weddings, GenXers could find Tommy Hilfiger’s Fall 2014 Ready to Wear collection a repeat of their American high school years. GenXers could find the blanket mini skirts or the wedge booties too young, or they could find that their now-professional wardrobes no longer have room for exuberant tartans. Except that it isn’t a repeat, it isn’t too young, and, when paired with faded denim and versatile olive green, the tartans are – as Hilfiger’s deftly commercial lines usually are – remarkably wearable.
Astute details and major production set the tone for the runway show. Creative consultants Karl Templer and Nian Fish, both with reputations for honouring street style and powerful narrative, made the American ski slope come alive. Through the production, though, Hilfiger’s collection shone. Fleece linings were practical and textural. Leather blocking honoured classic American style in bomber and cowboy jackets.
Hilfiger built on still-active trends in bi- or tri-color wedge booties, taking them a step farther than current street fashion. Perhaps the trickiest to wear in real life, though, were the wool blanket gowns. Bright tartans, set on the bias, could render the average woman frumpy, but here’s an old-fashioned Ben Franklin ($100 American) ladies on all sides of GenX attempt the cozy look next fall.
by Alison Santighian
Images courtesy Style.com