Norma Kamali may have put forth a new identity for herself, but after a couple of seasons, it can get quite tiring. This isn’t to say her Fall 2019 Collection wasn’t good. In fact, it’s her signature electric energy that continues to captivate consumers and critics alike. Among designers today, Norma Kamali takes on gender neutrality in such arguably the most authentic and effective way. Her looks, whether leaning more towards masculine or feminine tropes, are packed in with so much androgyny that, at the end of the day, no will care if a man is wearing a womenswear piece and vice versa. A vertical striped fit-to-flare pantsuit, for instance, is just as great an outfit for men as it is for women. Not to mention the shimmering sleeping bag coats that are incredibly chic and comfy. Her focus on long and lean silhouettes this season was influenced by the 1970s—a time when the heavy focus on love and peace was juxtaposed by the extremely violent Vietnam War. Here, however, she takes on the former’s approach in pushing an optimistic narrative that still has slight shrouds of melancholy. Here’s to hoping that next season, she’ll venture into new territories!
Photo: Courtesy of Norma Kamali
