Who are fashion shows really for?

The September fashion shows have come to an end. This is the time when designers showcase their new looks for Spring/Summer 2018. Well, most of them do. Some showed “see now, buy now” looks ready for immediate purchase.

As the fashion industry contemplates the future of fashion weeks, the shows, and the guests, I think the styling of looks has, in many cases, gone beyond aspirational and is now so “artsy” that as they appear, these looks are not wearable.

I have been a Burberry fan for years. I love the tailored looks, heritage and quality construction that the House produces. In an attempt to push the envelope this year, creative director Christopher Bailey took show attendees on a wild ride. In my opinion, too wild. It was difficult to think this is the same House who brings us the well-crafted, highly coveted trenches that have been the Burberry staple for years.

This September’s show was received with high praise from the fashion industry, however I wonder how many women really felt inspired to rush out and make purchases.

Burberry, September 2017

The looks had way too much going on to really see the offerings clearly. This look (left), for example, shows four different prints under a plastic raincoat. Firstly, I don’t know anyone who could pull off this look as is. Secondly, I’m sure each piece is exquisite, but so many things are piled together, it’s difficult to really appreciate any one piece. It’s a big jumble. A hot mess, really – the kind of look that would have landed the wearer on “What Not to Wear.”

Contrast this with the elegant Sonia Rykiel House, and their Spring/Summer 2018 show in Paris, just a few weeks after Burberry.

Sonia Rykiel, Spring 2018

This look also uses multiple patterns, but the styling is more refined and focused. This is a look that most women I know could pull off. It’s easy to see the top and skirt, and they look cohesive.

Not that anyone from these houses care what I think, but I’m hopeful that as the fashion industry considers the future of fashion weeks, they think about staying in touch with their customers.

I’m much more inspired to look to Sonia Rykiel than Burberry.

How about you?

Make your skin glow

There are thousands of skin care products on the market, ranging from a few dollars to nearly $1000.  Does price guarantee results? It’s an interesting question.

I have used several brands over the years. I was recently on a web discussion board, where women were discussing their skin care regimens.

I scrolled through the posts and realized that most women use modestly-priced products. Neutragena soaps/cleansers appeared frequently. Many like Estee Lauder’s Night Repair Serum Complex II, Clarins, Olay and La Roche Posay. Interestingly, no one mentioned La Mer or La Prairie – which are the $300+ skin care products.

Since everyone is looking for something different from their skincare, you need understand what skin conditions you are trying to address or prevent.

(BTW my hands-down favourite skin care product is Coppertone SPF 30 or higher. So be sure to include sunscreen as part of your skincare routine.)

Here are some products that I have used and personally found good results:

Reversa combines anti-aging SPF with glycolic acid. Great for daytime.

Caudalie offers a luxurious line of natural skin care, centred around the benefits of resveratrol.

La Roche Posay has a great daytime lotion that includes SPF.

Avene Physiolift Wrinkle Filler really works to reduce the appearance of lines. Test it on your “elevens” the vertical lines most people have between their eyebrows.

Estee Lauder Night Repair Serum has a great reputation and glides on silky smooth.

What are your favourtie skin care products?