sidewalk catwalk

One of the things I love most about this city is the endless source of creativity and inspiration that is everywhere. Right now, on the pedestrian walkway on Broadway running from Herald Square to Times Square is the "Sidewalk Catwalk". Thirty-two big name designers were given mannequins and allowed to do with it whatever they were inspired to do. These mannequins will be displayed on the sidewalks until Labor Day and then will be auctioned off. Oh, if only I could afford one! After I read about it here I knew that I instantly had to view the "catwalk" for myself. It was really an experience to see them. What was most interesting was how different designers interpreted what they were supposed to do so drastically different than others. Nanette Lepore's mannequin was fashioned with gigantic, colorful glow-in-the-dark flowers while Rebecca Taylor dressed her mannequin in a design that could easily be sold in stores around the country. Elie Tahari designed a dress out of aluminum and fiberglass and in person the intricacy of the design was impressive. I tried taking pictures of the little detailing that wasn't noticeable from afar, but when viewed up close showed just how creative these designers are. There was even a mannequin that was outfitted by Parson's students, how cool!

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I would highly recommend clicking through the slide show that is on The Cut's post on the exhibition. Plus it has interesting little tidbits about each mannequin. And here is even more info if you're interested!

{Nanette Lepore's masterpiece}

{Isaac Mizrahi}

{Carlos Falchi's graffiti painted mannequin with a major bow}

{John Bartlett used materials from Home Depot in his design}

{Badgley Mischka's sequined gown fit for the Oscar's}

{Victor Alfaro used an actual parachute in his design}

{Isabel Toledo used drinking straws in the pleats}

{Elie Tahari's fiberglass and aluminum design}

{Rachel Roy}

{Nicole Miller used stones on the bodice of her dress}

{Stephen Burrows}

{Naeem Khan embroidered a leotard for her mannequin}

{Parsons Students Niyati Karwat and Emily Saunders used only natural materials, so organic}