Spring 2013 RTW Collections Inspired by Foreign Cultures

For two of fashion’s heavy-hitters, Diane von Furstenberg and Ralph Lauren, their Spring 2013 Collections found inspiration in the rich, vibrant cultures of India and Latin America, respectively.

Diane von Furstenberg has been hinting towards her spring collection inspiration since she shared her travel adventures with Vogue in “Passage to India: Diane von Furstenberg’s Photo Travel Diary.”  Her travels to the Palace in Jodhpur, the Taj Mahal, the local markets in Udaipur, Rajasthan and the Taj Lake Palace brought rich color, texture and detail to each look.

The traditional dress of South Asian women – from the sari to the shalwar kameez – were translated by von Furstenberg into a collection that can be worn from day to evening.

She’s always been known for understanding what women want and her ability to balance glamour with functionality have brought much success.

Another good quality – her open-minded views on technology.  During and after the show, select models, von Furstenberg, and Google cofounder, Sergey Brin were wearing Glass by Google prototypes, a spectacle-like apparatus that is capable of capturing images and much more.

  

  

  

Ralph Lauren stepped out of his all-American comfort zone and journeyed to Latin America for RTW Spring 2013.  The fringe, the embroidery, the tulle, the color.  The rich colors and textures.  All coalesced into a vibrant collection that brought to mind traditional costumes of Flamenco, Salsa or Pasa Doble dancers.

Each look had a sultry vibe as the show went from from casual to formal.  Accessories were heavy and diverse – from berets to bandanas – each model was adorned down to the last detail.

The show ended with a group of curve-loving gowns in red, black and white.  A stunning collection made for the Ralph Lauren woman who isn’t afraid to step out in something different every now and then.