By Susan Devaney
Oscar de la Renta, autumn/winter 15, photo courtesy of Getty.
Following in someone else’s footsteps is no easy feat, especially if those steps were taken by fashion’s finest gentleman Oscar de la Renta. After his death in October last year newly appointed creative director Peter Copping was handed the task of keeping the late designer’s vision alive. And tonight, was the night.
There was a merging of two worlds this evening at Oscar de la Renta’s show on 42nd Street. On one side sat the older generation who’ve sworn by the de la Renta code for decades, and opposite were the young rising starlets (Karlie Kloss and her best friend Taylor Swift). But, both found common ground in their unwavering love for Oscar, both the man and his talent. It came as no surprise that emotions (and tears) were running high as the first collection since de la Renta’s death was presented.
Oscar de la Renta, autumn/winter 15, photo courtesy of Getty.
Placed on everyone’s seat was a note from Copping himself, expressing both regret and hope. ‘I am immensely proud to have been chosen as the creative director of Oscar de la Renta,’ it read. ‘Unfortunately things did not go according to our plans and I never had the chance to work with Oscar, which is something I deeply regret.’ He spoke of his intention to honour Mr. de la Renta’s legacy and ‘to start a new chapter for the house.’
Swaying down the runway came Copping’s new vision. Fairytale-esque gowns in duchess satin and tumbling tulle paid homage to the de la Renta customer. Constructed tweed suits in windowpane paneling and bold floral prints were sleek and elegant. Chic updos and drop-earrings were sophisticated, as always. Both young and old were in agreement; as de la Renta’s successor Copping stepped up and succeeded.
