Toni Francesc Brings Life to the Runway

by Barb on February 18, 2010

Featuring the theme artificial life, Toni Francesc boldly explored the realm of androgyny, technology, and the future in his new collection, which debuted Tuesday night at Bryant Park. Seated in my chair, I watched as look after look came out to impress me. The only opposition I had to the show was the music, which I found to be a little slow and dragging for my taste.

With hair slicked back and molded into the shape of the back of an alien’s head, the concept of forwardness and future was well conveyed. The color palette was fairly muted with colors that were not extremely strong, and that were in fact a reference to industrial and rusted metal elements. What was key to keeping collection interesting, though, were the many shapes in designs that were introduced. Bat wings were incorporated to provide a looser fit in some looks, whereas in others, Francesc made use of slimline silhouettes and high waist pants. One of the favorites is a slim-fit jacket, which has pointed shoulders – not only is there attitude in the jacket itself but there is also a sense of class with the tailoring.

The beauty truly lies in the lookbook itself, which best conveys the fusion of technology and man. Here are several snapshots from the catalog below, which feature electrical wires and other industrial elements intertwined with the model and Francesc’s designs.