NEW YORK — Jason Wu is a designer of few words.
When I interviewed him in Houston last spring before the Best Dressed Luncheon, we talked for exactly 6-1/2 minutes. But he answered every question thoughtfully and so succinctly, unlike many designers who take 6-1/2 minutes to answer one question, that I ran out of things to ask. He was funny too, insisting he was not as serious as he always looks in pictures.
For his spring 2016 collection, Wu, again, is just as stingy with words. His program notes consisted of one word: "Glamour."
As usual, he let his work do the talking with a collection that redefines what glamoor is all about. It's not sequins, embroidery or razzle dazzle trickery, but understated chic. Think Slim Keith, a social icon of the 1940s and 1950s, instead of Jennifer Lopez or Madonna.
A key look in Wu's collection is the dress, in subdued shades like forest green or rust, some bolder colors — a red shade really pops — or watercolor print florals. Several gowns show an exposed shoulder — one of the key trends emerging so far for next spring/summer — and the barely-exposed midriff look, so popular for fall, remains, with just a sliver of flesh showing between top and skirt or pants.
And what should be in the well-dressed woman's spring wardrobe? At least one pair of shorts — in this case, worn with a deep red V-neck belted tunic for a chic look.
Jason Wu red dress.
With designs for both men and women, the boots are exclusively available online. Photo courtesy of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo
