Vintage Feminista: When Fashion, Retro, and the Woman Collide in Jovovich-Hawk

In the last few weeks, I’ve been writing about actors and singers who morphed into fashion designers. Why, I asked myself, am I not spotlight those instead who use fashion as a living? The runway is still the major way for designers to present collections; one of the most important factors in a successful runway show are the types of models wearing the clothes. So who better would know fashion then two top tier supermodels?

Milla Jovovich and Carmen Hawk are the creators of Jovovich-Hawk, the girly, yet sexy fashion collection. Debuting in 2003, this line was available exclusively at Fred Segal and sold out to fashionistas everywhere. With three years under their belt and their forth looming, their Holiday 2006 collection is strong. Filled with frocks of lace, stockings, and brassieres, Jovovich-Hawk manages to capture this season’s trends with a very girly-girl twist on things.

To get a glimpse of Jovovich-Hawk, log on to www.jovovich-hawk.com. Though you can’t purchase from their website, you can see the holiday 2006 collection there. The spring/summer 07 collection can be viewed in www.millaj.com, though I don’t believe it’s available in stores yet.

The most popular aspect about Jovovich and Hawk’s line are their dresses. They are renowned for feminine and vintage edge. Perusing the 06 and 07 collections, you’ll find lots of lace and ruffles, though none are reminiscent of your sixth birthday party. One of my favorite dresses is the Lady Jane velvet mini dress, available at La Garconne (www.lagarconne.com). Though originally part of the fall line, this little velvet dress can take you throughout the winter season with a pair of dark tights and boots. It could also be worn over jeans for a casual look, or even over a pair of dark, skinny slacks, for a dressier, office friendly kick (retail $495, www.lagarconne.com).

Of the spring/summer 07 collection, my personal favorite was the black and white polka dotted chiffon dress. With the retro feel of the polka-dot, mish mashed with a splash of lace, I fell in love. It is a wear-me-now dress, sure to be hot in the next season. Matched with a pair of white, t-strap pumps or platform wedges, this outfit will be to die for.

To sum it up, out of all the collections I’ve reviewed so far, Jovovich-Hawk is one of my favorites. It’s inspired by the modern women, yet still has the trendiness of vintage which has loomed so big over the last year. Though hard to find online, the search will definitely be worth it. Now hand me my t-strap pumps to wear with that chiffon dream.

by Susan Bynum