After eight consecutive days of more than 100 shows, the inaugural run of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at Lincoln Center came to a close Thursday night, ending what has been a significant modification to the fashion industry's twice-yearly convention. Packed with new technologies, revamped layouts, and a more modern aesthetic, the IMG Fashion-produced tent complex created a new experience for both attendees and designers, reflected in the staging of shows and presentations.
For many collections, the sleek look of the Theatre venue provided a distinct contrast to the bright-colored spring clothing and necessitated no further embellishment other than use of the new upstage LED video wall. However, inside the Box, the presentation space introduced this season, designers took a more decorative approach, building colorful, sometimes elaborate sets in the 125-capacity room.
Most eye-catching of all were the runway shows from Richie Rich and Betsey Johnson. Never one for plain sets, Johnson previewed her spring 2011 wares in a theatrical, Tour de France-style showing that put footage of Johnson cycling through the city on the video wall, road markings on the catwalk, and a procession of models in riding gear in the finale. Rich's outing was equally as entertaining, opening with ballerinas and a performance by DJ Mia Moretti and electric violinist Caitlin Moe, and closing with Ellen DeGeneres strutting down the runway as confetti cannons sprayed glitter.
