Runway Deep Dive: Mary McFadden 1984 and 1985 RTW
Mary McFadden 1984 Sportswear Collection and 1985 Ready to Wear
It’s no surprise that we are big fans of Mary McFadden at Happy Isles. With the news of her passing, we felt it fitting to look back at some of her amazing runway shows.
Mary McFadden in 1984
In particular, the 1984 Sportswear and 1985 RTW collections speak to her creative voice and love of ancient aesthetics. And, of course, so much of the “Marii” micro pleating that became her signature!
Left: Spring 1985 RTW collection. Right: Spring 1984 Sportswear collection.
To the left is a dress from the Spring 1985 collection. The sharp shoulders and embellished bodice add drama, while the dropped waist lends an ease.
In the photo on the right, iconic model Iman walks in the 1984 Sportswear collection. The elaborate dresses and headpieces differ from what we would traditionally consider sportswear; however, we’ll accept McFadden's version of “casual” as unfussy, wearable, and completely showstopping.
Two Looks from the 1985 Spring RTW Show
For her Spring 1985 Ready to Wear Runway show, McFadden leaned into classic shapes. Aside from the styling and the jewelry, this collection's sleek silhouettes seem out of time for the 1980s. Mary drew on Ancient Roman influences for this show and created unique gowns unlike others seen at the time.
(Take a peak down below for a style from this collection currently at HILA!)
Two Looks from the 1984 Spring Sportswear Collection
On the left, for the 1984 Sportswear runway collection, you can see some Renaissance and neoclassical inspiration with puffed sleeves and squared necklines. (I’m showing my Millennial age here, but the look on the left is kind of giving me the Childlike Empress from The Neverending Story or Drew Barrymore in Ever After…)
The photo on the right leans less into fantasy. It’s slightly Grecian, but the gown's structure adds an elegant, timeless twist. Would be perfect for a rehearsal dinner in Italy.
Left: Mary McFadden in 1992. Right: Mary McFadden in 1978.
And we would be remiss not to discuss Mary McFadden’s fabulous sense of personal style. She was the best model of her clothes. Styling them with her sharp black bob and piles of chunky jewelry.
Thank you, Mary! 💛
Photos: Getty Images
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