Missoni Resort...

For the new resort collection, Angela Missoni looked to Africa and the 60's as inspiration. Funny, considering that my first thought was YSL's 1967 African collection. It is amazing how so many creative people look to "exotic" cultures for inspiration in their work. You have Picasso with tribal masks, YSL and his various ethnic-centric collections, Coco Chanel and Chinese Lacquer, John Galliano and his Asian collections, as well as Dries Van Noten's sample of world cultures. I think a lot of this exploration comes from the remoteness of these cultures to western audiences, and their bold use of color, pattern, and texture. What about fashions obsession with people from these far off places? Take the up and coming fashion darling Hakaan. For years now he has been showing in his native Turkey, until this past season when he was in London. His past collections are not too remarkable, and his new one was filled with hits and misses. So why then is he gaining the praises of Kate Moss and Carine Roitfeld, as well as top models Anja Rubik, Lara Stone, and Mariacarla Boscono? Could it be that unexplainable draw to non-western cultures that is at play? As for Missoni Resort, I found it refreshing; a nice alternative to the waxing trend of 70's minimal, and the waning trend of 80's glam. I for one will be excited to see the accessories up close and personal.