As the fashion set made their way to the Whitney Museum of American Art in New York, they discovered books of love poems and sonnets awaiting them at their seats. Designer Tory Burch was evidently in the Valentine’s Day spirit, eager to share her love of not only literature, but also her fondness for film, culture, and of course, romance in fashion.

Burch cited Katharine Hepburn’s character in The Philadelphia Story as inspiration for her fall 2017 collection. Dramatic oversized monogram ties adorned the necks of a number of the models, while suits of velvet trousers and plaid blazers suggested that the Tory Burch woman isn’t afraid to challenge the patriarchy. The strong-woman archetype was one seen on many runways this season, and Burch has offered her own depiction of resilient femininity by designing a collection of clothes for powerful, fearless women.

While Hepburn’s influence was more than evident, it was the designer’s own roots in Philadelphia that were on full display. Gold embroidered gowns, Fair Isle knits, and exaggerated pussy bow blouses were subtle nods to the ’70s while a daring use of texture provided the collection with much-needed contemporary twists. Faux furs appeared in a number of pieces, even on a handbag, and shearling was abundant; most notably in a dyed plaid coat that added a sense of modern ingenuity to the collection.

By Anthony Palliparambil

See more of the latest coverage from the New York Fashion Week fall/winter 2017 shows here.

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