Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week FW 2013: Monika Chiang

INSPIRATION: “My inspiration for Fall/Winter 2013 began with a recurring dream I’ve been having for years. In the dream, I’m running as fast as I can until I take off into flight. I also recently visited an exhibit with these really interesting mid-century photographs of birds at MOMA and became fascinated with the shapes they create with their wings while in flight. So you’ll see a lot of graphic shapes in the collection that were inspired by those references. With regard to tailoring, I began thinking a lot about vintage military and aviator uniforms shapes while developing the silhouettes for the season.” – Monika Chiang

FASHION: Monika Chiang’s edgy Fall/Winter 2013 collection was full of army and aviator references interpreted in a mix of powerful and ultra-feminine ways. There was a balance of draped and structured pieces. Jackets were belted accentuating strong silhouettes. Necks were adorned with heavy-metal chains, collars and bibs. Leather in various shades was a cohesive element throughout most of the 16 looks, showing up on a dress, culottes, leggings and accessories. The collection was anchored in black, port, ivory and taupe with dramatic gold and silver accents.

HAIR by Aveeno: The hair look was bouffant meets faux-hawk, with sides slicked back and the crown full of volume and texture.

MAKEUP by Lancome: The intense and mesmerizing makeup look focused on a dark smoky eye with lots of lash, a pop of teal in the inner corner, plus intricate designs at the outer corner reminiscent of butterfly wings. The complexion was flawless and radiant and the lip was a glossy nude.

What do you think of the beauty looks from Monika Chiang?