The New Look 2013

Gladys Rodríguez-Dod
Exclusively By Rex Fabrics
Fine Fabrics from Around the World

The New Look in fashion surfaced at just the right time. World War II was over and Paris was recovering from the remnants of the German occupation. Tired of sacrifices and rationing, people were looking for something to cheer their souls again, something that would help them forget, at least for a moment, the horrors of war. Precisely during this period the House of Nina Ricci launched Coeur Joie (Happy Heart), because that was how the French woman felt after the Victory.

And Christian Dior resumed his position and created a collection that stood out for defining the silhouette. Skirts were sweeping and required yards and yard of fabric… as never before! Jackets were fitted and emphasized the waist. After his fashion show, a thundering applause invaded his atelier and an American journalist, entranced with the new look, named it the “New Look”… and the name stuck!

More than sixty years later, the fashion world is reliving this grand updated success. We can say the New Look is simply sensational. Although nostalgic, it offers a style very much in sync with modern life.

It is not a trend, without a doubt… It is, for better words, reconnecting with an old friend who during all these years has been loyal and has allowed us to dream of yesteryears… and applauds the present.

Jackets are still fitted but they show a modernized cut, always aiming to highlight the curves. Most of the skirts are wide and, of course, with thin belts that gracefully cinches an hourglass silhouette, they make us women look sexier.

The textures and fabrics in these designs range from wools to fine silks. Some are sporty, others dressier, but they all display excellent quality.

PRADA opts for a sporty look, with precious wools, very light at times and others falling gracefully. Skirts are full, fun, and remind us of the 50s, with jackets that fit the woman’s silhouette in a sensual manner.

AQUILANO RIMONDI went for the checks and, naturally, his jackets go hand in hand with wide skirts that highlight the curves. Needless to say, he added the expected belt making it the perfect accessory. ROCHAS gracefully uses tones such as grey or charcoal and the jackets show unexpected collars. Modern and innovative, these are a must for winter.

For tailored suits, NINA RICCI preferred to use blues, bringing a feeling of the past but updating it in the twenty-first century. Coquettish, fun, sexy… because there’s no question this is how women feel today.

The variety of the fabrics the designers have used is surprising. I visited Rex Fabrics and discovered marvelous wools that fall gracefully but are still soft and, because of its lightness, they can be used in tropical climates. And I found some in pastel colors, a trend for the season like… the sky! The wintry tweeds and textures in fashion arrive in traditional designs as well as in interesting colors such as blue turquoise… leaving us breathless. There are also prints that can be mixed with solid colored jackets or sweaters… to use with very thin belts.

The choices are plenty… it all depends on our mood… because us women have the last word. The key is to carry this New Look with assurance… elegance… and, yes, with personal accessories, such as a pretty necklace, an incredible pin, or some spectacular earrings, thus creating our own personal touch. Don’t miss out and explore the New Look. We are sure you won’t regret it. Who is game?