OFF-CENTER

SOMETHING AWRY

Not the same as asymmetry, which is typically characterized by a one-shoulder aesthetic, off-center styles are purposely undone, twisted, or askew. Just when we thought there was nothing new under the fashion sun, designers wow us with creative, yet wearable, new looks!

Ermanno Scervino’s fanciful ombré dresses, like the one pictured here (at left, courtesy of Italian Vogue’s runway coverage of the Fall 2008 collections in Milan), seem almost to be twisted around the model, creating a sculptural effect.

This pale monochrome look by Diesel Black Gold has a “she’s come undone” vibe, with a sweater whose closure is slightly askew, and sleeves that are in a state of half-undress. Couture Carrie adores this malleable fashion aesthetic, which seems to take its cue from performance hiking gear, which can be zipped off and on for easy comfort. Photo at right: Italian Vogue.

The majority of these off-center looks is to be found among fall's plethora of gorgeous jackets. Just a sampling (at left, top to bottom): Philip Lim gray and ivory coat; Vivienne Westwood Red Label white side-button duster; and Eley Kishimoto winter white curved-closure pea coat. All three photos via nymag.com.

Gaetano Navarra captures the mood with this winter coat, made interesting by oversize fur cuffs and collar and off-center buttons. Photo at right courtesy Vogue Italia online.