R13 Fall 2019 RTW – New York Fashion Week

(Images from Vogue.com and wwd.com. The public domain. All rights. Used in promotion of the designer.)

R13 debuted in 2009, so it is a very young brand.  With its creative director (and founder) Chris Leba set a precedence with the pre and post grunge styles of the 90s.  It works as a reference point of history, which maybe, as far as aesthetics are concerned swinging back in earnest. So, R13 at this point in time is perfectly positioned.  And the styles, I feel, have a contemporary flare to them with out reaching to far back into the early 90s.  Which is important, for two reasons – that reflect each other.  One, fast fashion will catch up fast to the post grudge mix and match sport looks ala 1995, the second important aspect is Thrift Stores will need to price under fast fashion which can discount faster than a second hand store.  So, independent designers clambering to reestablish past years trends, will have to reintegrate degrees of influences to stay relevant.

Regardless, I like R13's take on the current trend which is overtaking, thankfully, the conservative rigidness of the so called hipster looks.  Yes, these are 'street' trends, yet it will be interesting to see how the younger generation maintain and maybe influence designers as they, the stylists from the streets, rework 90s styles into something unique.

Plaid overlays, flowing silk printed skirts, heavy layered jackets, blazers coats with leggings, eclectic, yet not rustic. Over sized pinstripe dress pants and high cut denim shorts, leopard skin prints, camouflage, hanging jewelery and accessories sitting over second hand styles. On an overall scale of styles from the past, it works well. 

Chris Leba has revealed a well structured and nicely inspired array for his Fall 2019 ready-to-wear collection, lets see if the streets inspire him and he inspires the streets.