Like Balmain before her, Jenny Packham looked to the bright lights and blinking slot machines of Las Vegas for her Spring ’13 inspiration. But even if the spirit of the Strip was infused in every sequin and embellishment of the collection, we’re still talking about a red-carpet master: old-world glamour runs rampant. Think ever-tasteful – but totally decadent. So how to modernize pailette-accented goddess dresses and shimmering-all-over sheaths? The answer is clear: PVC!
Translucent PVC, which we’re gearing up to get used to seeing more and more of this season (thanks to the eclectic likes of Chanel, Shourouk, and Phillip Lim) has a directional vibe that’s equally simple and scandalous. Packham nails the balance of class and sass for a collection of clutches to give other crystal-clear designers a run for their poker chips. You get your dose of Fremont-Street cheesiness thanks to the plastic-y material (admit it, it’s fun to get a little tacky); then glistening crystals, crisp jewel clasps, and satin frame-tops refine the look for a cool juxtaposition. PVC might bring edge to the mood, but the rest is all classic Packham, with the eye for true, old-fashioned glamour. Hey, sometimes it pays off to take a gamble.
