Alessandro Dell’Acqua said the inspiration for his fall collection for No. 21 was the majorette. But somehow, that baton-twirling symbol of wholesome beauty got lost in translation in the designer’s ode to Americana, as seen through a glass darkly.
That wasn’t a bad thing. After all, who wants to look at acres of sequined spandex? Instead, Dell’Acqua blended post-World War II references with a dash of punk and a dose of his signature — and uniquely Italian — sense of embellishment, resulting in a vaguely David Lynch-ian take on retro tough girl glamour.
“I love the image of the majorette,” the designer said backstage. “But in the melancholic way — it’s not very funny.” This girl likes to sparkle after dark, flashing ornate rhinestone motifs from a thigh-grazing LBD. The neon signs of Fifties-era Las Vegas glittered from a sequined swing coat, with a leopard-print collar for added pizzazz.
The kitschy flourishes, which extended to crystal-studded slingback kitten heels, were balanced with his signature androgynous touches — as if the majorette and her boyfriend had got their clothes mixed in the wash. It made for a compelling mix.
Military-flavored olive pants featured thick strips of crystals down the sides, while parkas came in fancy
Follow WWD on Twitter or become a fan on Facebook.Read More…