Zac Posen Spring 2014: A Romantic Collection Inspired by Impressionists

There was something confectionary about Zac Posen’s Spring 2014 collection. Perhaps it was the candy-colored frocks, the model’s hair teased up in a cotton candy updo, or the voluminous ruffles seemingly frothed up to be luxuriantly devoured. But the magical air that everyone seems to be breathing at a Zac Posen runway was definitely electric, as social media feeds went crazy for the designer.

I wouldn’t say it was his strongest collection. But this could be because his collections are always very strong. Some of these dresses seemed a little out of step with the current trends and what is feeling modern for Spring 2014. And as we all know, the fashion industry only forgives such a transgression when the statement is strong and successful and clairvoyant. I can’t see these romantic, girlish silhouettes becoming hip and fashion forward, but neither do I claim to have Posen’s artistic vision.

To get to what was strong, as usual of course, the gowns. I preferred the more structured, elegant satin numbers to the organza and tulle. The show-stopper was undoubtedly a green puffball of a dress comprised of large, long ruffles from strapless neckline to hem.

Posen was inspired by the impressionists and this romantic underpinning was evident throughout, and I must say he did manage to typify the woman of that artistic movement. Unfortunately, the last time that was cutting edge was the 19th century. We’d like to see something more modern from Zac next time.