BLACKBURN AND SWEETZER

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Been meaning to post on the 7 For All Mankind spring 2010 preview, held at the brand’s 100 South Robertson Boulevard boutique on the same night as the Sartorialist’s appearances (first at Barneys, then at Beverly Center), which was—wow—already a week-and-a-half ago.

A couple interesting points about the preview: 1) the in-store presentation was much more effective than previous seasons, with mannequins center stage in various looks, denim hanging from the ceiling, as well as jeans racked to showcase the washes, and 2) let me preface this by saying this is in not a complaint or even a negative, but an observation on the market and economy of fashion—at past previews, attendees received a gratis pair of jeans from the collection. Looks like this practice, at least on this scale, is no more. Everyone’s cutting back (exploding gift bags are no longer the norm) and, certainly, you should never come to expect free jeans. But, I’m not gonna lie, it was a very nice and very generous surprise to score a pair of 7’s, and an opportunity to experience the product (you do glean elements of style, durability, size, fit, etc. from wear).

More on the collection and photos this way…

As for the spring 2010 collection, you’ll find lots of distressing and vintage-y washes. While the ’80s-inspired acid washes (one pair with a Bongo-esque belt, also denim, which wrapped around the hips multiple times) felt a bit too on the nose or ironic, other faded, destroyed and bleached washes were definitely calling my name. Ditto for the denim pencil skirts, an adorable chambray romper, and a cool minty wash which felt fresh.

Accessories standouts included refined denim heels and two-toned flats with T-straps, and a leather belt with braid detail and brass hardware I’m convinced would look perfect cinching just about anything.

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