Fashion lovers across the country have been flocking to our runways at the Nordstrom Designer Preview as we showcase what we’re loving for fall from our Designer Collections.
Photos by Michael Naiman, Bryce Covey and Vivian Hsu for Team Photogenic © 2011.
Also a benefit for local charitable causes and organizations, the event may have its biggest fan in Nordstrom Fashion Director, Gregg Andrews—one of the many behind the preview’s success. We caught up with Andrews to talk about his favorite trends on the runway and the one piece every woman needs in her wardrobe this fall.
What do you love most about the Designer Preview?
Showing our customers amazing designer pieces straight from the runways of the world’s biggest fashion capitals. It’s always an exciting event, and I love to hear the ‘ooos’ and ‘ahhs’ coming from the audience when something spectacular comes down the runway.
What’s the most common reaction you hear after the show?
“Wow! It’s like being in New York, Paris or Milan.”
There’s a renewed excitement about fashion and all the possibilities that a new season brings. People can’t wait to go to our on-sight boutique and get an up-close look at the clothes. They want to touch the beautiful fabrics and see the exquisite craftsmanship…and shop!
What were your favorite trends at the Designer Preview?
The retro feminine trend that takes inspiration from the 1940s, ‘60s and ‘70s looked very sophisticated. Silhouettes were soft and fluid—the longer hemlines, the wide-leg trousers, the beautiful blouses. Not to mention capes and the look of fur adding a touch of drama. Gucci really captured the decadent feel of the ‘70s in a very chic and elegant way.
A trend toward minimalism showed the new direction of fashion. It was about the purity of designs that focus on the construction and shape of a garment. An angular sheath dress, a jacket with zip or concealed closures or sleek pants all prove the beauty of simplicity. The Michael Kors Fall Collection had timeless pieces with clean architectural lines and luxurious touches of leather and cashmere.
What are you most excited about for fall?
There’s a huge emphasis on sportswear for fall, which allows women to create their own unique looks reflecting their personal style. Our customer is very fashion savvy. She gets her inspiration from the runway, then mixes designers, high/low and the new with the old. The pieces this fall allow her to express herself and build a beautiful, functional wardrobe.
If a woman invested in just one great piece for fall, what should it be?
A skirt or dress with a longer hemline—anywhere from just below the knee to mid-calf or maxi. Wear it with some great platform heels or killer boots, and you’ve got a hot fall look straight off the runway.
Can’t get enough of the Fall 2011 runways? Watch highlights narrated by Jeffrey Kalinsky, Nordstrom EVP of Designer Merchandising, with even more commentary on the season’s most important trends.
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