Oscar de la Renta Spring 2013

Oscar de la Renta’s Spring 2013 collection is a whimsical combination of politically correct silhouettes and a cotton candy-themed color scheme.  The 80-year-old designer proves, once again, that he can remain relevant with his classically feminine and expertly constructed clothes.

            De la Renta, known for dressing former First Lady Laura Bush and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, created a collection that practically begs for Michelle Obama’s approval.  The First Lady has never publically worn any of De la Renta’s clothes, but I can see that changing with the upcoming season. 

            The show began with a red leather top cinched with a wide, red leather belt, blue structured blazer, and a white high-slit pencil skirt.  The model, styled with an overtly dramatic messy beehive, looked as if she stepped right off of the campaign trail, until she turned the corner.  Only visible from the side view was a bubblegum-pink strand of hair.  Every model had vivid strands painted in her hair, ranging from highlighter-yellow to electric-blue; a playful smirk by De la Renta to unite his 60-look collection.

            While at times the show tended to wander, De la Renta always seemed in control.  He masterfully transitioned from piece to piece, confirming that there was a method to his qualified madness. 

After beginning with the sexuality of red leather, De la Renta gracefully evolved into the purity of white lace separates and pantsuits.  The sheer lace tops and deep necklines erased all images of Grandma’s doilies, and instead seemed just as sensual as red leather.

A mixture of lemon-hued daywear, hot pink quarter-length jackets with blue tassels, and black yarn graffiti fabric followed the white lace dresses.  Not surprisingly, De la Renta designed all of these pieces to be functional as ready-to-wear staples.

The highlight of the show was the spectacular ending featuring De la Renta excelling at what he does best: evening wear.  The combination of full, a-line, and pencil skirts added to the excitement.  Although very chic with classic lines, these pieces were not without drama and texture.  A full, floor-length dress with nautical stripes reminiscent of Ralph Lauren, along with a hot-pink, feathered peplum top over pink shorts, were among the standouts.  We will undoubtedly be seeing many of these dresses worn by celebrities and politicians’ wives in the near future. 

If there was any doubt before that De la Renta knows how to dress women, it has now permanently been vanquished.  His Spring 2013 collection may be among the best throughout his 50-year career.