I used to associate Kenzo with logo emblazoned sweaters worn by my Asian aunties…which is the same sweater that will probably rule the streets come next season, as seen on Karlie on the Paris Fall 2012 runway! Yes, I used to have not-so-stylish ideas about Kenzo, that is, until Carol Lim and Humberto Leon stepped in as Creative Directors last season. In less than a year, Opening Ceremony’s painfully hip duo has completely re-hauled the brand, which was founded in 1970 by Takado Kenzo.
The pair might have had the concept of a girl playing dress up in her closet in mind this season (according to Leon), but these clothes are incredibly wearable! And even more importantly, Kenzo’s latest reminds us, simply, that fashion is supposed to be FUN. What a novel idea! High shine and bold color brought verve, but there was also a sense of purpose at play. The eye-bending, dizzying array of mixed prints revealed a strong emphasis on tailoring, in the drainpipe legs of the structured suits, the pert fit of the buttoned-up overcoats, the way the lengthy skirts caught breeze.
The clothes feel effortless yet intentional, in the least contrived sense of the word. Kenzo exudes a sense of intelligence that doesn’t take itself too seriously – and if you ask me, that’s the best kind of “smart”!

Images courtesy of Vogue.