Why Art Deco is BACK on our Catwalks
by Liz Greehy
Why is art deco fashion playing such a come-back role in 2012? Well, if you look at the role it played in its first foray into the fashion world back in the 1930’s, then you will see why it has become more than relevant again today. Being a real herald of the modernist movement in arts, architecture and graphic design in Paris, back in the post war 1930’s era, people loved this new move towards bright colours, geometric shapes and contemporary dressing. It took their minds off the miserable economic state of the many countries involved in the World War – and it brought with it a new hopefulness and a feeling of moving forward; one which was widely welcomed in the fashion world. It is funny how, once again, art deco style prints are making such a similar impact on our fashion catwalks today, at a time when we are clearly suffering similarly in terms of our global economic crises. The interesting thing is that this time around, it is sharing the catwalks with our resurgence of interest in the 1920’s. Back in the day, the art deco style was a distinct movement AWAY from the delicate and intricate designs and textiles of the roaring twenties. Today we are very much seeing a fusion of three decades – one which is cushioned somewhere between the opulence of the twenties and the austerity of the 1940’s - suggesting that perhaps it is more of an art deco influence in a much wider, newer trend – one which I have yet to find an all encompassing name for.
In order to bring art deco influences into your 2012 wardrobe, you would need to be focusing on clean lines, modern silhouettes, bright colours, geometric shapes and abstract, funky prints – perhaps those with Egyptian or Aztec influences. You don’t need to go head to toe art deco; you could merely accompany a clean, plain coloured look with a funky art deco clutch or indeed some wide-leg printed trousers with a funky, clean cut tuxedo jacket and so on. Here are some current art deco looks from SS12 catwalks, followed by one or two high street accessories.
Marc Jacobs ss12
Holly Fulton ss12
Gucci ss12
Balmain ss12
Surface to Air art deco Sandals on ASOS right now for €448
A gorgeous Kenneth Jay Lane art deco ring on ASOS right now for €63.29
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