Victoria Beckham Ready To Wear Spring Summer 2013 New York

Backstage after her show at the New York Public Library this morning an emotional Victoria Beckham greeted a throng of well-wishers -- buyers, editors, journalists and fans all wanting to say a quick word of praise to a women who is (recent Olympic outing aside) putting her pop star past firmly behind her.
In full blossom in the fashion world, her well-orchestrated and well-rounded show confirmed that, although she is still designing with herself in mind, Beckham is also clearly listening to her customers.

For the first time she included pants in her lineup and put a real focus on separates – another first for the designer. “You are constantly questioning yourself,” said Beckham, with a smile, adding that along with her new clothing options she wanted to test her hand at textures.

“If you look at this dress,” explained Beckham, pointing to the black dress she was wearing (a carbon copy of one that had just walked down the catwalk), “you have the pleated georgette, the chiffon, the canvas and the graphic lace.” It is worth noting that this description just covered only the bottom half of her ensemble.

So, yes, there was a lot going on, on many different levels, in this show. In addition to the textures, which came layered, or as inserted elements, like sleeves cut from abstract white lace, or a ribbed razor back t-shirt top, which melded into a form fitting dress, there was also a continued focus on lingerie.

Underpinnings as a starting point have always been a comfort zone for Beckham. This time the shapewear look of her bodycon dresses and strappy bra tops had a sporty sophistication, particularly when crafted in part with semi sheer elements. The final look was a perfect example of how the designer combined the curvy style she has built her name on and the new direction she is pushing her brand into. It was a white, knee-length dress with a prim white collar that featured asymmetrical mesh-like lace cutting across the torso and up one arm.

And what about those famous pants? They were cut to sit at the hip, had some room in the legs and were cropped above the ankle. They looked like a classic in the making for the insightful designer.
 

- Jessica Michault