Indonesian Diversity was a delightful treat at New York Fashion Week. There were four dynamic participating designers; Dian Pelangi, Alleira Batik, Itang Yunasz, and 2 Madison Avenue. Attendees were left in awe by each garment as they flowed down the runway. Intricate details like embroidered lace, beadwork, and crystals were woven onto organic cotton, silk, leather, and satin – many of the looks encompassed the traditional Indonesian prints and head wraps, like hijabs and turbans.
Indonesian Diversity FW19 Runway
Dian Pelangi
The first collection was titled “Social Love”, the designers’ interpretation on the “hype” of the fashionista on social media. Each look was layered with dresses and coats cinched at the waist over pants obstructing the mainstream vision of femininity. Integrating tones of pink, black and yellow included accessories such as cat eye sunglasses and street style snaps. With pieces that left many of the American guests asking if the collection was “See Now Buy Now.”, Pelangi demonstrated that hijabi women can be cool, modern, and embrace street style.
“Women rocking a hijab should still be able to represent the modern,
dynamic, and sporty street style typical of Manhattan.”
Itang Yunasz
The next designer, Itang Yunasz captivated the crowd with flowy dresses that epitomized luxury, batik-chic, the traditional print of Indonesia, transporting them to a dreamy Jakarta night. Intricate details like crystal embroidery and seashells created a boho-chic aesthetic on the tulle, silk organza full length dresses that can easily be worn day or night – with the promise of transporting you to an Indonesian paradise. Each look was adorned by show-stopping turbans made from traditional fabric.
2 Madison Avenue
2 Madison Avenue brought new silhouettes, vibrant colors, and structure to the runway. The collection was filled with hot pink, red, yellow, and other contemporary colors; along with a juxtaposition of textiles, designs, and knee-high boots. A world tour of inspiration from Africa to Japan and Spain to New York, the presentation started with pink and leather leading to embroidered evening wear; featuring euro-style pop-art to an elegant, white, finale dress.
Alleira Batik
The fourth and final collection, Alleira Batik, presented a sophisticated collection of tunics and dresses with traditional red and aqua blue silks and organza along with structured jackets. The show-stopper was a printed pantsuit with plum, burgundy, and red hues that effortless worked with unexpected synergy. The print recurred in other silhouettes that were both wearable and editorial, a hard feat for any designer.
*All Photos Courtesy of Yuchen Liao/Getty Images
Which looks were your favorite?