The New York shows always come through with great American sportswear, and this season was no exception. But in a bit of a surprise, there was a major revival of millinery.
Marc Jacobs, 3.1 Phillip Lim and Temperley all showed formal toppings, from wide-brimmed styles to top hats and fedoras. Proenza Schouler A Erin Fetherston did versions with crystals and cloches with other monochromatic embellishments. DKNY and Ralph Lauren brought back the beret in an urban way, and Rodarte and Michael Kors had the frigid winter temperatures in mind in showing their big knit and mink toppers, respectively.
Hats have long been a hard sell in the U.S., but Ed Burstell, Bergdorf Goodman’s senior vice president and general merchandise manager of beauty, jewelry and accessories, said, “I think that after several seasons, we are due for a hat revival. A big part of the new refinement in fashion is finishing an outfit, i.e., a hat or glove. Hats and caps will also be easier to wear this coming season, as the hair styles everywhere have all been pulled up and back, away from the face.”