Abstract Art Fashion

The arty trend ,where fashion fuses with abstract art, was especially outstanding on the runways this year. Designers took their inspiration from artists and illustrators, employing a range of techniques from abstract expressionism to ink and watercolour, and from thick impasto to bold brushstrokes. In spring 08, Prada collaborated with James Jean to design an ethereal collection of faery-printed it bags and clothes, while pop artist Richard Prince added a dose of bright colour to the LV monogram bags. Furthermore, the vibrant hand-painted smears inspired by abstract expressionist Jackson Pollock gave the gorgeous tulle Dolce & Gabbana gowns an arty glamour.

Surrealism

Surreal Apparel

Inspired by the Dali exhibit at New York's MoMA, Fashion goes phantasmic!

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The Genealogy of Neckwear

20th century and present

Fashionable neckties of the 20th century varied tremendously in length, width, and choice of pattern. For example, skinny neckties, stripes and foulards were perennial favorites, while during some decades, such as the 1940s and 1960s, the favored ties were wide and often decorated with flamboyant floral or geometric patterns. Ties today are commonly worn without clasps, pins, or tacks.

1800: the Jabot

The Jabot, a falling ruffle, especially of lace, worn at the neck by women and wen. This style tie is not so much a tie, but more a collar, or bib, in varying styles, worn over a blouse or shirt. Jabots became very popular in the 1800s.

1860-1920:The Ascot

The ascot, a broad scarf or necktie worn looped under the chin so the ends are laid flat, one across the other. The modern ascot tie consists of several pleats in the neckband, and two wide flaps of equal width, normally coming to a point at the ends. There is also a similar style of tie known as the ascot scarf, which gained popularity in the 1960s. This was a square scarf rather than tie, loosely tied around the neck, which is still worn today by US military candidates.

The 19th Century

The modern necktie developed in the mid-19th century. At the time, it was called the “four in hand,” because the knot echoed the knotting of reigns in horseback riding. The “four in hand” was one of many neckwear options during this period. Also popular were the ascot, the bowtie, and the stock. These styles represent a considerable change from the cravat.

1720-1800 : The Cravat

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A cravat refer to any necktie, modern or otherwise. It's also refer to a cloth often made of, or trimmed in lace, worn about the neck by men, especially in the 17th century.

In the 1800s cravats hit the zenith of popularity. With a multitude of complicated ways of pleating and knotting. It was said that the tie of a mans cravat announced his social standing, and was in fact a letter of introduction to the world.