Everyone knows their Marcs from their Calvins. But as fashion month kicks into gear, we’ll be spotlighting the up-and-coming designers and indie brands whose names you’ll want to remember.
Label: 5:31 Jérôme, by Jérôme LaMaar
Need to know: Though he’s among the newest designers showing for Spring ’14, Jérôme LaMaar isn’t really new at all—in fact, he’s kind of an oldie. LaMaar began his career as an intern at Baby Phat, quickly climbing the ranks to become senior designer at the ripe age of 18. Ten years (and an apprenticeship with Ralph Rucci) later, the designer is creating his own buzz with his new line, 5:31 Jérôme. (The 5:31 refers to his birthday, May 31.)
Last night, LaMaar presented a bold, youthful collection that managed to combine street-style excess with sleek sophistication. Despite the “MORE” emblazoned on a crystal-studded sweatshirt, the seasoned designer knew better than to turn out an entire range of Swarovski-embellished jeans, peony-appliquéd baseball caps, or paillette-covered skirts. Those pieces were standouts, but minimal shapes elsewhere provided balance. The simpler pieces were anything but boring—clever details like a hidden zipper down the back of a cream moto jacket (to be opened like a vent) or intricate boning in a structured crop top were thoughtful. Models’ sandals were artfully constructed from moss and leaves, a deliberate riff on LaMaar’s love of nature, but pared-down shifts, flared skirts, and tailored pants kept everything firmly grounded.
He said: “The concept for Spring ’14 was to mix the luxury side, which I love and know very well, with the street. This eventually moved into other contrasts, like minimalism and abundance, sensuality and sophistication. I was trying to keep everything very easy and wearable, so you could take one item and throw it over a dress during the day, but also wear it at night for a luxurious evening look.”
Where to find it: Seeing as this is his first season, LaMaar doesn’t have any confirmed stockists—yet. Word on the street is that retailers were buzzing about his big debut. Stay tuned…
