Paris – There was a dramatic opening to the Rick Owens autumn/winter 2012 show in Paris, as the set burst into flames and models emerged clad in dark capes.
Owens presented a mysterious, dark and eerily romantic collection. Rugged layers of boiled wool and distressed leather were styled with tough work boots and knitted headpieces that Owens described as ‘Brutalist veils’.
The overall feel was raw and primeval, giving the impression of a sinister and mysterious underlying symbolism of black magic.
The Owens collection is a progression from the Dark Shrouds trend started by Central Saint Martins MA graduates at London Fashion Week. There seems to be a sombre reaction from designers as the economic climate continues to raise fear and uncertainty.