Alexander Wang Catwalk Fashion Show New York FW2011

The collection Alexander Wang sent out yesterday was based on thick padded ponchos, quilted on the inside, that looked as if the models had pulled duvet covers over their heads. All the lush, cocoon-y outerwear was clever, with hybrids of bomber jacket-turned-poncho, boyfriend blazer-turned-fur coat, and a tuxedo jacket with puffer sleeves.

Sometimes it looked a bit exaggerated and over the top, but that’s just what Wang had in mind. He wanted to make some fun of decadence and luxury. A key element of the collection was the use of technologically advanced fabrics that combined knits and woven silk in a single piece, the result worked out beautifully. But there were more materials he used unexpectedly: everyday fleece or techno Neoprene for elegant outfits, jogging pants in luxurious pony skin; and eye goggles framed with fur. Even when the clothes were relatively classic, like bias-cut satin dresses, the skirts unraveled into ribbon streamers to give the look a twist.