Gretchen Jones, Fall 2012

 

http://www.zimbio.com/pictures/NMtBwXvTbzw/Gretchen+Jones+Presentation+Fall+2012+Mercedes/HqodBgnap1T

The Navajo Nation met downtown chic as Project Runway alum Gretchen Jones presented her Fall 2012 collection. Hailing from Colorado and Oregon, Jones incorporates those western elements with her unique urban aesthetic. Jones' work is simple in line and structure but the fabrics, the layering, the color story and accessories bring her work to life. I was particularly taken with some of the less obvious Western prints; the silks were fabulously intricate and appealing. The sterling silver pieces, each one bigger, more vibrant and intricate than the next, were contemporary and fresh with a clear hint of nostalgia for the designer's cultural influences as a child. Set in a cool, open warehouse space, Ms. Jones recreated the likeness of a Native American ritual site. Models stood elegantly atop soapboxes (I wonder if that was intentional) that were placed at different points in a circle. The interconnectedness came in trickles of sand, along with small, deliberately placed rock piles, each path leading to a beautifully painted rock that stood at the center of the cypher. It was aesthetically beautiful and yet did not detract from the collection. The simple braid accompanied by the smooth, slightly bronze makeup left the models sun-kissed and windblown. The felt hats were thoughtfully utilized to add depth to some of Ms. Jones' simple looks. Her dresses were absolutely breathtaking up close, with surprising lines offering the illusion of pockets. Ms. Jones has a clear and distinct perspective that was both inviting and inventive.