Hussein Chalayan

On the other end of the spectrum, there was the nearly universally acclaimed collection of Hussein Chalayan. His collection was truly forward-looking. When other designers try to avoid references to the past, they often simply turn to a different set of cliches. (For instance, I thought Balenciaga's collection looked like what ever designer for ages has imagined the future would be like... robotic, synthetic, clean lines, etc.) Chalayan managed to bring something original to the table, even if you don't consider the gimmicky but fabulously cool shape-shifting clothes.

The traditional clothes he showed were fresh-looking and simply gorgeous. The lightweight materials were perfect for spring, and the shapes are a nice variation on the babydoll dresses that are everywhere. And the colors are so beautiful! I especially like the dress on the model in the back of the second photo.



This dress would make you the prettiest girl at any party.



Maybe this is a concession to traditional, cliched "futurism." At least this dress is really beautiful regardless.



Somehow he can even make normal clothes a million times better.



Of course, his shape-shifting clothes were awesome. Still photos don't do them justice at all--watch the video below. My favorite part was the shifting neckline around 0:45.