Loewe
PARIS, March 8, 2002
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Madrid-based leather goods house Loewe—owned by fashion conglomerate LVMH—is attempting to work that now-commonplace fashion strategy: hire a young, critically acknowledged designer to create a buzz-generating ready-to-wear line, thereby boosting a venerable brand into a global powerhouse (see also Louis Vuitton, Dior, Celine, etc.)José Enrique Oña Selfa's maiden effort as the house designer was a decent attempt. He seemed most comfortable when he stuck to his home ground of knitwear, or played up the house's ability with skins. Simple sportswear shapes rendered in butterscotch or vanilla-toned hides and fitted shearling coats with seams detailed in contrast leather didn't break any style ground, but will certainly speak to luxury leather fans everywhere. And though Oña Selfa lost his way with awkward knee-length hobble skirts and release-pleat wide leg trousers, the creamy wide leather belts and smartly constructed bags that ornamented many of the looks could be the start of a beautiful business.
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