Bach Mai and LoveShackFancy went all out to showcase their fall 2023 collections in extravagant presentations that left a lasting impression. Designer Bach Mai, who presented his fourth collection at New York Fashion Week (NYFW), revealed that his vibrant hair colors are intentionally dyed to match key colors from his collections. This season, Mai’s hair was a striking teal blue, perfectly complementing the teal bomber-style shirt he wore from the collection. Despite the whimsical approach, Mai is dead serious about creating evening wear and day dressing options for special occasions that stand out.
Mai’s fall/winter 2023 presentation, titled ‘Cave of the Sirens,’ took place at The DiMenna Center for Classical Music and was a collaborative effort incorporating various art forms such as music, dance, and theatrical staging. Models gracefully moved through a makeshift cave setting, showcasing the collection with ethereal and fluid gestures. Karl Lagerfeld’s influence was evident in Mai’s use of embroidery tulle, chiffon, and the timeless little black dress. Additionally, Mai’s previous work at John Galliano also played a role in his nostalgic approach. By juxtaposing dark shades with metallic blue-green hues, Mai explored fabrics with iridescent embroidery, reflective surfaces, and sequins.
While the presentation’s bold and edgy atmosphere, created by the music, model staging, and fog machine, captured attention, it made it somewhat challenging to truly appreciate the clothes. Thankfully, a partnership with Neiman Marcus will overcome this obstacle by providing customers with a closer, in-store look at the collection, starting in September.
On the other hand, LoveShackFancy, led by designer Rebecca Hessel-Cohen, is well-known for its feminine and floral-infused collections that transport wearers to a fantasy lifestyle reminiscent of period pieces. Hessel-Cohen has previously chosen iconic locations such as New York’s Plaza Hotel and the Paris Ritz Hotel to present her creations. However, this season, she aimed to showcase a more realistic side of the brand.
With the opening of three new stores in the past year, LoveShackFancy has experienced significant growth, bringing the total flagship locations to 17. To meet customer demands and expand the LoveShackFancy world, the brand introduced its first pants and moto jacket for the fall 2023 collection. Outerwear and knitwear have been particularly popular, with chunky and alpaca knits leading the way. While the brand’s signature frilly floral lace aesthetic remains strong, there is a subtle shift towards a slightly edgier look inspired by London’s Portobello Road scene.
Hessel-Cohen introduced the concept of the “Rebel Rose,” a more mature and slightly tougher version of the LoveShackFancy girl with a vintage British eccentricity. The brand’s best-selling colors continue to be black, cream, and pink, with a renewed focus on eveningwear featuring crystal embellishments. LoveShackFancy is also catering to a more sophisticated clientele by sourcing elevated fabrics from Italian mills and paying attention to fit, including features like elastic waistbands.
Embracing imperfections, raw edges, and upcycled items made from vintage fabrics, LoveShackFancy aims to fulfill the desires of its younger customers. Hessel-Cohen even shared an example of a one-of-a-kind white wedding dress created from 1930s vintage tablecloths. With a wide range of options available, it’s exciting to imagine where the LoveShackFancy lady can go. And considering the popularity of the brand’s lace, floral, tulle, and satin designs among young fashionable individuals posing in the luxurious settings of the Plaza, it’s evident that the joy of dressing up remains a constant.
Useful Links:
– Bach Mai’s Fall/Winter 2023 Collection at NYFW
– LoveShackFancy Official Website
