The story of Alice in Wonderland has been inspiring designers for many decades. The vibrant world and quirky characters have been brought to life through various interpretations over the years and countless Runway collections have cited it as the underlying inspiration.
Instead of examining some of the looks inspired by Alice’s tale, I pulled 5 designer looks from the recent AW2020 Fashion Shows that would be perfect for the Wonderland characters if they stepped out in New York City today. Think ‘Wonderland’ but with a high fashion, city sensibility. Each of these gorgeous outfits comes from the Designer collections presented at the Fall 20 shows. [*For a complete list of the Fall trends, see my FW20 Trend Report]
Ready to check out these looks?! —On to the first one!
Alexander McQueen AW2020
1. The Playing Card Soldier
Wearing: Alexander McQueen AW2020
This is quite possibly my favorite look of the set. The thick ribbed sweater dress, cinched at the waist by a bold black belt is the perfect Fall silhouette. The bias rib side panels make for an extremely flattering drape. Its monochrome pallet is enhanced by the red highlight stitching and matching red thigh-high boots. This look is simple, elegant, chic, and extremely wearable.
Why it’s perfect for the Playing Card Soldier:
Beyond the obvious color similarities, the red threading makes a diamond shape, reminiscent of the diamond suit of cards. The fitted silhouette looks like the updated version of the white playing card design in the old Disney movie version.
Click here to view the rest of the McQueen AW2020 runway show on Vogue.
2. The Mad Hatter
Wearing: JW Anderson AW2020
This gorgeous long dress coat has a shaped waist with princess seams, a notched collar and a single breasted button front closure. The window pane plaid is nod to menswear inspired suiting. (*A key AW20 trend.) The shoulder embellishment details add a touch of controlled chaos to the pristine look.
Why it’s perfect for the Mad Hatter:
In most adaptions, the Mad Hatter is seen wearing a suit jacket and tailored pants. The Hatter is well due for an upgrade and this suit set is perfect. The white ringlet shoulder trim brings a bit off madness to this otherwise tailored look.
Click here to view the rest of the JW Anderson collection on Vogue
Marine Serre AW2020
3. The Red Queen
Wearing: Marine Serre AW2020
This dress is a masterful merger of many different details. There’s a sheer lizard motif overlay at the neckline, and varied floral patterns over the rest of the dress. Panels of velvet, silk, and print alternate and switch between the bias and the grain line of the fabric to create a beautiful contoured shape. The brushed gloves and scooped ruffle neckline elevate the look further. (*Key Trend: Piecing - See other pieced looks in my FW20 report.)
Why it’s perfect for the Red Queen:
The look may be a little more Fuchsia than the Red queen is used to, but it’s time for a refresh! The rich fabrics and delicate construction make it fit for a modern queen. The contrasting lizard overlay adds an element of edge.
Click here to view the rest of the Marine Serre Collection on Vogue
Tom Ford AW2020
4. The White Rabbit
Wearing: Tom Ford AW2020
This menswear outfit is the perfect neutral: an all white casual layered look topped with a beautiful brushed grey shearling coat. The all white drop front track pants, hoodie, and V neck tee act as a clean slate to showcase the statement jacket.
Why it’s perfect for the White Rabbit: The neutral pallet and dramatic coat elevate this comfortable style. This outfit has an athleisure-esque quality, perfect for someone who’s always in a rush—The shearling coat ties it all together and keeps it from looking too casual.
Click here to view the rest of the Tom Ford Collection on Vogue
Gucci AW2020
5. Alice, herself!
Wearing: Gucci AW2020
This dress has so many beautiful details: Delicate ruffled lace tiers bordered by black lace edging; Soft ruched drapery at the front of the skirt, and a lightly shirred sheer bodice and sleeves. The pastel blue paired with the transparent black lace creates a gothic quality. (*Key Trends: Sleeve Drama; Tiered Ruffles)
Why its perfect for Alice: She’s always liked a bit of ruffle, volume, and a lace. This dress has all that and more. Its a show stopping gown, fit for the hero of the story. Plus, its her iconic blue!
That’s a wrap! Which of these 5 runway looks is your favorite? Share in the comments below!
Deanna Kei is a New York based live event illustrator who turns guests into fun fashion illustrations, highlighting each of their personal styles. She’s available to book for both live and virtual events and is available for travel. She also creates custom fashion illustrations for brands and is open for illustration commissions. Contact her at deannakei@gmail.com
