SEOUL FASHION WEEK FW17: FLEAMADONNA
Fleamadonna Fall/Winter 2017 collection review.
Words Joei Reinstein, Media Seoul Fashion Week
Fleamadonna, launched by designer JEI KIM in 2007 seeks to dress the individual and the leader of the pack. The name itself derives from the Opera term Prima Donna which a clear indication of the DNA of this unique Korean brand. A favorite among Korean celebrities and idols, Tiffany, an SNSD member rocked up to the show wearing a see-through dress from the SS17 collection.
Lit up by hypnotic abstract imagery on two giant screens, the show started off with a spacey effect as if the models had just been beamed down from an alien ship. The first outfits down the runway definitely continued this theme with gowns that were draped in what looked like fashionable saran wrap, giving an ethereal sci-fi style. This was completed with see-through soled Nikes that graced every model’s feet. And while seasons past had more of a somber mood, the FW17 collection definitely conveyed the feeling of celebration which was literally written on the backs of several of the garments.
The collection then evolved into what could possibly called LeisureChic. Not a complete departure from athleisure but as if it had grown up a bit and became more suitable for the office: floor length skirts and slinky trenches, Dior-esque New Look cinched dresses, tapered and wide legged trousers and button-down shirts that hit mid-calf. This was anything but conservative though as garments were adorned with diagonal ruffles and high slits and were all crafted with ultra luxe, shiny and iridescent fabric. One piece was even half of a suit jacket giving asymmetry an entirely new meaning. The color palette ran the gamut from silvers and whites, to lilacs and aubergines to the ongoing Korean black and red trend. Of particular note was the sleeping-bag like parka and dress that mixed quirky functionality (ready for a protest anyone? ) with style.