A Sweet Send Off for Jil Sander’s Raf Simons

Is there any greater reward than a standing ovation led by Anna Wintour? That’s how the fashion world bade farewell (for now) to Jil Sander’s creative director Raf Simons at his final runway show this past Saturday in Milan. The hearty applause was well deserved, as Simons ended his six-and-a-half-year stint at the label with a gorgeous, clean collection that maintained Jil Sander’s signature minimalist feel with a soft, feminine flair. Starting out with a pastel palette which slowly made room for splashes of red, metallic silver, and glossy black, the designer showed voluminous wool coats paired with body-conscious, lingerie-like dresses (not to mention fabulous separates and jumpsuits). Though expertly understated, the line certainly was not without a wow factor, from clever front cutouts to a stunning structured black dress quite possibly made from the same material as the rubber suit in American Horror Story.

The 44-year-old Belgian designer’s departure comes after an announcement that founder Jil Sander will return as the creative director of her eponymous line on Monday. As excited as we are to see Sander back at the helm, Simons's brilliant showing on Saturday proved that he’ll be greatly missed. But there is some good news. Rumors are buzzing that Sander’s surprise move makes it all the more likely that Simons will take the reins at Dior, since the fashion house infamously ousted John Galliano after his controversial comments. One thing’s for sure: Wherever Raf Simons goes, the fashion world will follow.

Text Kara Solarz
Image Fashionista.com

It’s In the Bag

Trendsetter Raf Simons has done it again. The head designer for Jil Sander embarked in new fashion territory with his fall 2012 menswear line, an almost all-black collection that mixed super-serious leather garments with elements of whimsy, such as dinosaur and whale graphics. But the standout piece was an unexpected accessory: a lunch bag. Leave it to Simons to take two seemingly uncool things — a man purse (insert a Friends punch line here) and the act of brown bagging it — and make it this season's men's must-have.

We have seen quite a few businessmen toting greasy brown bags to work after a stop at the bodega, but they’ve never looked quite this good before. Perhaps because Simons gave this school-day staple a makeover in black leather as well as the classic brown paper (made with ultra-durable, reinforced material). Or maybe it’s because the designer paired them with flawless suits and trenches — definitely not apparel we’ve seen on any playground.

So, will this trend be as disposable as its brown paper inspiration? If the success of Jil Sander’s made-over market tote bags is any indicator, then guys (and the girls that shop for them) are sure to catch onto this new look.

Text Kara Solarz
Image and Source New York Times Style