In Ole Yde’s collection notes, the designer said he turned to “exotic and unknown lands, new cultures, colors and fragrances” for inspiration, and his eponymous collection, Yde, reflected this sentiment through a line of colorful and bold ready-to-wear pieces. It was an eclectic presentation that showcased everything from little black dresses to sequined safari wear. But pulling from such a large number of influences can also create a lack of consistency which hinders a collection.
Using soft materials like silk chiffon, crepe and organza, pieces moved gracefully down the runway in a balanced mix of dramatic and understated silhouettes. His designs demonstrated his ability to create feminine pieces that women want to wear—pussy-bow blouses and pleated skirting was popular in the collection, and his voluminous chiffon designs looked comfortable and romantic. Slinky, floor-skimming dresses were slimly cut to accentuate, but not hug each model’s curves. Some of his column and feather dresses near the end of the show had the kind of movement and figure-enhancing shape that any woman would covet.
Unfortunately the collection didn’t feel cohesive. Flowing, floor-length, leopard print gowns were shown just before pleated leather mini dresses—the only thing tying them together was the animal print that adorned the leather sleeves. This was followed up by a suited safari dress with sequin pockets accessorized with a neck scarf. Shortly thereafter Victorian inspirations were seen on the runway, then ostrich feather dresses. Individually they were beautiful pieces, but as a collection they seemed inconsistent. It’s clear Yde has the talent to create for almost anyone, but narrowing his vision will allow the true beauty of the Yde woman to shine through.
