Rodarte

It seems as though the Mulleavy sisters did some California dreamin' while creating their most recent collection. Their inspiration was taken from various places within the Golden State, from the suburbs in the Seventies, to the redwood forests, and even into an imagined land where California goddess girls stalk, gilded from head to toe. Oddly enough, references as humorous as wooden side paneling on a car and as naturalistic as a beautiful redwood tree, came together quite cohesively. The use of layering, seen especially in the first look, reminded me of a surfer-punk girl the Beach Boys almost sang about, but decided was too rough around the edges. This collection shifted away from the designers' heavy use of construction, for a stronger emphasis on draping, contributing to the softer, more calm vibe that could not be more appropriate. Wearability—often a dirty word—also seemed to be a focus, though the sisters haven't abandoned their famed flare for the strange. They have simply included easy separates among their more daring pieces. I just hope this does not mark a sudden move towards "realistic" clothing, though it wouldn't be shocking, as there are rumors about LVMH picking them up. On a trip to Opening Ceremony, I saw their incredible work from seasons past with my own eyes. Sterilization would be a tragedy. For now, Kate and Laura have me in utter adoration, never failing to excite. They have somehow achieved the feat of making California—a state which brings to mind plastic surgery, crowded beaches, and In-N-Out burgers—seem exotic. There is power in escapism and that's why I love the Rodarte ladies.

Julija Steponaviciute

Caroline Brasch Nielsen

Kamila Filipcikova

Kori Richardson

Rasa Zukauskaite

Jourdan Dunn

Toni Garrn

Lindsey Wixson

Tati Cotliar

Kasia Struss

Nimue Smit

Dorthea Barth Jorgensen

Madisyn Ritland

Heidi Mount

Aline Weber

Cole Tusznio

Antonella Graef

Britt

Daria Strokous

Anja Rubik


Photos via NY Mag