Top designers predict future fashions for Neiman Marcus’ 100th birthday
DALLAS — Neiman Marcus is celebrating its past with a look into the future. To mark its 100th anniversary, the luxury retailer asked leading fashion designers to create what they see as the future of fashion. The results — everything from a black and white sequined pantsuit embellished with an enormous bow by Giorgio Armani, to a silvery evening gown from Valentino — are on display at the company’s flagship store.
The creations from about two dozen designers are part of a shimmering display among jewelry and purses on the store’s ground floor, with many of the designs rotating to show all of the angles. That exhibit and several others throughout the store will be on display through Nov. 3. Ken Downing, senior vice president fashion director for Neiman Marcus, said that the assignment they gave the designers was to dress women for the next 100 years.
Who would she be? Who would be your muse? How would you dress her for the party of the century? said Downing, who curated the Future Fashion exhibit. They’re all very special, very different and very much in the voice of the designer, Downing said. Looks include a white ensemble made up of a strapless top adorned with sequins paired with flowing wide-legged matching pants by Stella McCartney. Zac Posen designed an evening gown of gold and white with a billowing train.
Dolce Gabbana’s shiny red cocktail dress is cinched at the waist with a large metallic piece. While the designs run the gamut, Downing said one thing that is apparent is that style and luxury will continue. The idea for the assignment came as executives thought about the vision the founders of Neiman Marcus had when they opened the store in 1907 at the crossroads of cotton and cattle, Downing said.