Fashion addicted, Berlin-based designer, Marcel Ostertag debuted his Autumn/Winter Collection 2018 at New York Fashion Week to a standing-room-only crowd at the Spring Studios in New York City. And, like the designer, everything he creates, down to his shoes, is made in Germany from responsible, sustainable fabrics. Ostertag says he is indeed addicted to fashion, and obsesses over the tiniest of details to create his one-of-a-kind looks.
Fashion addiction and Opium inspire New York Fashion Week runway at Marcel Ostertag
Sultry models strutted the runway in bold, bright colors from neon orange and flamboyant pink to oxblood red reminiscent of the 1970s, which also happens to be the designers’ favorite decade.
I talked with him backstage to discuss his inspiration for this season. “My new collection is called Opium, and it’s about addiction to fashion and opulence. It is also a homage to the late 1970s decade and the life and lifestyle of Yves Saint-Laurent, who always had lavish, fun, over-the-top parties that were as addicting as his Opium perfume.”
Timeless pieces rule the Ostertag runway at Fashion Week
Ostertag says he designs for strong, sophisticated women who appreciate quality and timeless pieces. He has not embraced new technology and says he still does classical pattern cutting by hand and spends a lot of time researching fabrics. “It’s important for my styles to be modern and timeless and I don’t embrace, or do fast fashion.
My label is about opulent and sophisticated clothes that make women feel free and beautiful.”
Designer melds past with the present on the catwalk
His carefully researched fabrics on the runway included cashmere, silk, faux fur and sequined and pearl beaded chiffons. He also melded the past with the present incorporating poppy flowers, animal prints, and stripes onto updated wraps, go-go's and mod-dresses that were styled for the 21st-century woman.
Models also showcased his key accessories including sporty belts and a new handbag collection made in partnership with Tamaris, who also helps design his footwear. All the shoes are made of leather and come in burgundy, khaki, pastel pink and navy with rose gold detailing and plexi heels.
Other collaborations for the show included his brother, Johann Ostertag who created the musical track for the runway show. Makeup artistry was done by NYX and hairstyles by Redken.
