Ever since news broke that the Golden Globes would be a sea of black, with many women (and some men) dressed in black to show their solidarity against sexual misconduct in the workplace, I have tried to imagine how this would play out and what the evening would actually look like. I was psyched not only because of the obviously strong political/ social statement, but also because it has all the makings of a highly visual photo op/ fashion moment.
I was flummoxed that more than a few voiced concern that a parade of black would be dull, boring and uninteresting to the audience, as though it’s a recipe for a sea of women in sack cloth and ashes. This is not a funeral. If I had to wear just one color for the rest of my life, it would be black, and I know I am not alone. It is the favored color (or lack thereof) of seasoned fashion followers, urbanites, and most of fashion’s most revered creators, and for good reason.
There is endless variety within the one shade and the way I see it, it’s a great opportunity to break from tradition and rethink dressing for the red carpet – something that is long overdue. What is important now is honesty and integrity, so perhaps we will even see some stars going into their closets and picking things they love and feel most confident in; clothes that best express their personality and mood. It’s not a one size fits all proposition.
In advance of the highly anticipated televised event, I wanted to show of my favorite designs in black which represent its many sides and enormous versatility. Who knows, we might even see some (or versions) of them on Sunday night.
Click images for full size views:
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| Yves Saint Laurent Rive Gauche tuxedo 1980’s |
What could possibly be more feminist or authentic than a vintage Yves Saint Laurent Le Smoking?
Tuxedos never lose their appeal, and designers never stop trying to re interpret the genre, as exemplified by Jean Paul Gaultier’s version for Fall 2017 Couture.
Tom Ford’s cropped tuxedo jacket over long draped jersey dress from Spring 2018 is a sleek and modern update.
What better way to pay homage to Azzedine Alaia, the master craftsman/couturier who passed away last year than with one of his drop dead gorgeous museum worthy creations, such as this from Fall 2011 Couture?
Speaking of master craftsman, Ralph Rucci Fall 2014 Ready-to-wear.
I love the idea of something bold and unexpected, such as Ralph Lauren’s sleek black patent leather maxi trench from Fall 2017.
Speaking of nontraditional, how about a black dress in a divine 1950’s shape made of a waterproof nylon normally used for tents, like this one by Raf Simons for Calvin Klein, Spring 2018.
This Saint Laurent black velvet asymmetrical dress and matching boots from Spring 2018 is the epitome of cool.
This gown from Valentino Fall 2017 Couture is easy, graceful, and quietly beautiful.
Making an entrance is great, but what about also looking fabulous when you make an exit? Narciso Rodriguez has that one figured out with his sleek black jumpsuit from Spring 2018.
This Chanel Pre-Fall 2018 is a wonderful example of sheer AND opaque.
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| Rick Owens Spring 2007 Ready-To-Wear |
Rick Owens’ designs are dreamy, sculptural and avant garde.
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| Marchesa Resort 2018 |
Marchesa has long been a red carpet staple. More than likely, someone will show up in one of co-designer, Georgina Chapman’s designs, and that would be fitting considering her soon to be ex husband Harvey Weinstein will not be present at the Golden Globes this year. As you know, Georgina left her husband after reports of his sexual misconduct.
– Marilyn Kirschner
