For her Fall 2012 collection, EMERSON designer Jackie Fraser-Swan was initially inspired by an antique art piece that incorporated an image of a porcelain doll, known as the “Dresden Dolls” which originated from Dresden, Germany – a city that was badly damaged during WWII bombings. Thus, her research into the 1940’s continued to expand her inspiration.

As Fraser-Swan explains, “Black and white images of the aftermath of the bombings influenced my collection at first, and then as I continued to research, many more elements from this period of time began to interest me.” She started to focus on how women’s roles changed in America, sending them into the work force and into female army corps. The progression of women’s roles in society and the successive development of style, beauty, and independence were a key focal point. More after the jump…

 Masculine and feminine elements are juxtaposed throughout the collection, heavily influenced by the 1940’s when women replaced men in the factories during the war. Key pieces in the collection include the printed silk cape, an abstract ombre wool poncho, neoprene sailor pants and silk asymmetrical tops. Different shades of purple are prevalent, from rich plums to vibrant bright tones, along with pops of lime green, seen throughout the collection in shirts, dresses and as a lining. An olive green “bubble” fabric adds a unique touch to bomber jackets and shirts. Abstract ombre wool is used in bottoms, a poncho and jackets, as well as a houndstooth print in gray and purple, which create a new look for the signature EMERSON leggings. Black lace is also featured, including leggings, a slip, and lace detail on dresses. The collection also features black and gray denim, which is used for shirts, jeans and skirts.

The show featured shoes by Carlo Pazolini, hair by Zahir Ziani for Elizabeth Arden Red Door Spas, make-up by Andrea Helgadottir for Illamasqua, nails by Alisha Botero of Elizabeth Arden Red Door Spas for Illamasqua and music by Olivier Bobin and Yannick Grandjean (P.A.T.). 

Celebrities/VIPs in attendance at the show included Shenae Grimes (90210), India De Beauforte (Jane by Design), Leigh Lezark (Model/Misshapes DJ), DJ Kiss, Eric West, Miss J Alexander, and more.