The Bite Magazine - Autmn/Winter 2020 - Issue 28

bitecatwalk E stablished designer Jonathan Simkhai defines luxury ready- to-wear for the woman of power. The core aesthetic philosophy plays with the tension of feminine strength and sensuality; this is reflected in the employment of customised fabrics, romantic detailing, linear lines, and contoured silhou- ettes.The brand represents modern versatility through designs that seek to embolden women with confidence and ease. Starting his fashion career in New York, Simkhai launched his label after gaining experience as a buyer and merchandiser. Since relocating to Los Angeles, the designer is continuously inspired by the built-up environment, and his work often explores the confluence of technology and hand-made artistry. The show was simply clean; the first garment on the catwalk was a combined tan jacket top and black jumpsuit with a tan belt to match. It was an intriguing start to the show, and I believe this is what powerful statement women would want to be wearing daily. There were a lot of tailored pieces like the pleated trench coats that radiated softness and femininity. The designer’s focus on intricate hand-pleating, lace insets, grosgrain back ties, lingerie buttons and the extra detailing in the back of the garments were very impressive.We liked the houndstooth jumpsuit with open back details which added to the excitement of the catwalk presentation. The main standout piece was a black pleated one-shoulder dress that moved along the catwalk gracefully telling its own story. https://jonathansimkhai.com C hristopher John Rogers exists to create emotional and sensitive clothing.After a period of working on conces- sions on fit and fabrics, the fashion fund Rogers received enabled him to define his creative style and work.With a larger studio, it brings a new vision to the NYFW runway scene. Draped curtains prepared us for the opening of his show.The first outfit in a bulbous tangerine-shape exploded onto the runway with colour and vibrancy. It had all the glitz and glamour you can ask for from a Christopher John Rogers designer outfit. Pierrot-style ruffled neckline and trouser suits were a nice change to the dynamics of the collection. It was followed by the large-flowered and two-toned colour power suits gracing the catwalk. This season, Rogers came with pearlescent fabrics that helped to elevate the execution applied to the outfits’ structure. Wide-shoulder, hand-stitched suiting, and double-padded shoul- ders in horsehair were fully fused and lined in silk. The clothes are costly and look expensive. The future is an exciting prospect for Rogers as he wants to make outfits for people who love his concepts and always make his garments last. His designs have become red-carpet favourites for celebrities, and after this showing, we can see why. https://christopherjohnrogers.com JONATHAN SIMKHAI CHRISTOPHER JOHN ROGERS