"One should either be a work of art, or wear a work of art."
Notes on 'Camp' Partisan Review SUSAN SONTAG A whirling signature statement of lyrical decadence Some four hundred years later, Baroque has once again glamoured the global fashion landscape. For Fall 2012, Dolce & Gabbana sent gold bouillon necklace-draped models and haute clergy-inspired looks down the runway. White lace calf length dresses call to mind ceremonial gowns of childhood and cherub-printed red and rose gold blouses allude to Sicily’s baroque religious traditions. A lame top with wool trim at Stella McCartney and opulent, pearl-and-satin embroidered, body conscious frocks at Balmain, echo similar themes of post-Renaissance-era sensuality. Helmut Newton seduced by a gilded Versace medusa. Vogue Nippon editor and street style icon Anna Dello Russo is also drawing reference to Baroque aesthetics this season, releasing an ultra-decadent accessories line with the Swedish retail giant H&M on October 4th. Inspired by the gilded turquoise inlay on Baroque furniture, a children’s fantasy pop-up book, and the generous curves of Italian Baroque architecture, Dello Russo conjured up a playful Susan Sontag would have had a ball. -Ashley Simpson October 2012 |