Libertine’s FW runway was the place to watch for cool-kid inspiration for the upcoming season.
Designer Johnson Hartig presented Libertine’s FW 17 line this Monday for a group of fur clad attendees who braved the NYC winds to watch the runway. Featuring plenty of sequins, multicolored fringe, and wild prints artfully brought together in ensembles and layered oufits, Libertine brought to NYFW its characteristic flair for the dramatic. If Hartig has anything to say about it, fringe isn’t going anywhere: it’ll merely be transformed. In his show, you could see it dripping from models’ hands, from ski masks, from bombers, and coats. Women strode in intricately embroidered ensembles that included tiered skirts, structured coats, loose bombers, and bejeweled cuffs that will soon transition from the runway to the street. Fringe fell from the “Libertine” printed on a tie-dyed coat. The men wore sweatshirts printed with Santa Claus (?) and red dogs, and knit ponchos with “Libertine” on their chests.
Per usual, Hartig is redefining his own brand of cool, one that looks put together haphazardly: staying true to its name, Libertine forgoes restraints. Sequined bombers in yellow, pink, and purple were paired with bright floral skirts and black beanies. Yellow fur jackets fell away to reveal black slip dresses. Houndstooth ensembles were punctuated by colorful patches. Black coats were printed with block letters or “Mon Dieu” and “Holy F**k”, and trimmed with fur. Printed tights, in floral and leopard, peeked out from underneath shorts, skirts, dresses and outerwear to meet embroidered boots. For Libertine, fashion will shine this coming FW season. Sequined and leopard ensembles drew looks for men and women alike, and these were the tame ones: layers of multiple prints ruled the show. Hartig playfully injected pure fun into the runway to grateful applause, reminding onlookers that, in fashion, anything goes.
The Hôtel Americano rooftop, a home for many fashion week after parties, attracted a large crowd of eccentric fashion enthusiasts even in the freezing New York City weather. Founder Johnson Hartig was also present to party with the guests. Live music and a pool turned dance floor became center of the party. Since 2001, the brand is constantly sustaining itself endorsed by designers and celebrities like Mick Jagger and Taylor Swift.
