Prabal Gurung Spring 2013 Collection: Artfully Dramatic Volume

Working on his artfully edgy aesthetic, Prabal Gurung’s image for that was really shown off in his new Spring 2013 collection. The dramatics were definitely there, but in a way that wasn’t restricting or too structured. Volume played its hand very well, with lots of chiffon layering and a color palette that is right on the boundary of darkness.

The root of Gurung’s inspiration for this line was sati, which is described as when a widow immolates herself on her husband’s funeral pire. It can be a bit heady and morbid idea to base a collection on, that is unless you’re Prabal Gurung. Taking the idea and translating it from an artistic angle, the self-sacrificial act came alive in his use of whispery layers of white (a traditional color for mourning) and bright red.

Though if you’re a bit uneasy with the lingering thought of something heavy in the back of your mind, the collection pieces itself were really one that brought the dramatics. From sheer tops with trains to ruffled chiffon capes, things weren’t as body-conscious here, which also make them a lot more approachable. Though you won’t be a wallflower in any of these outfits.

The swirl and floral prints came into play very effortlessly, never overtaking too much, but it made its presence known. Paired with all the chiffon, it had beauty that was similar to an exotic bird - one you can’t draw your eyes away from too quickly.

Though it seemed as though Gurung really enjoyed his ruffles in this collection, with a bit of it included in almost every piece. Though being in such a light material. he was able to really build on them with different textual layers that brought really cool movement even though his colors were pretty tame.

I felt like there was really a more casual feel overall, especially from all the slouchy shapes and whispy fabrics that were used. Though that isn’t to say that Prabal Gurung has lost his edge, since a lot of darkness was incorporated throughout, making this collection something that becomes more intriguing when you look a little closer.