Francesca Liberatore’s Fall/Winter 2017 collection was absolutely stunning. The color palette which she used was not extremely bright nor dark, but rather a pure and classic selection of pastels and rich tones. Her use of textures was really what stood out, especially the flowing and soft velvets, as well as the detailed lace, floral appliqué, and additions of fur and knit. Like many shows during this fashion week, it carried a political message, but unlike the other shows, Francesca Liberatore was influenced by the particular figure of Franklin D. Roosevelt. This is evident in her pieces with phrases shouting “Freedom of want, speech, worship, want, fear, power, and promises”. With the figure Franklin D. Roosevelt in mind, she hoped to “make a parallel between what was then and what is now”. Franklin D. Roosevelt was able to bring America out of the Recession and succeed in World War II, and from the powerful silhouettes and figures wearing each look, this collection is able to model the same strength and resilience of FDR through a fashionable outlet. Currently, we may be in domestic turmoil, with repressions in our voice, repressions in the freedom and diversity of Americans, but this collection is representative of an overarching power of the people that gives us the hope and reminder that things will become better. Her show was also inspired by the two famous Hyde Parks, one being in London and the other in New York. London’s Hyde Park for the band Oasis and New York’s being the location of the library and FDR’s home. This collection successfully incorporated social messages with art and fashion and created a empowering, feminine image.
photos from nyfw.com