Rachel Antonoff Spring 2013

I read online sometimes about how models always look "angry" on runways or at presentations and the truth is: the designers give the models cues. Sometimes they're told to walk fast and keep a blank face, other times they're told to be cheerful and bouncy, but ultimately it's not a demonstration of a model's personality whatever they do at a fashion show but rather a reflection of the designer's vision. Rachel Antonoff always creates a complete scene with her presentations--this season felt like an eccentric garden party and the models were quite devoted to character. One carved hearts into a fake tree with an intense expression (that bordered on scary if it hadn't been so delightful to watch!) while others lounged on picnic blankets looking bored with life. The clothes were perfect for the setting and a quirky take on preppy classics--sweatshirts featured retro font with modern messages while gym shorts were made chic with a tiled green print. Stand outs were again her shoe collaboration with Bass; loved the low-heeled oxfords but I was especially drawn to the new pieces with cursive names scrawled across the leather, quite old school collegiate feeling.