Madrid-based leather goods house Loewe—owned by fashion conglomerate LVMH—is attempting to work that now-commonplace fashion strategy: hire a young, critically acknowledged designer to create a buzz-generating ready-to-wear line, thereby boosting a venerable brand into a global powerhouse (see also Louis Vuitton, Dior, Celine, etc.)
José Enrique Oña Selfa s maiden effort as the house designer was a decent attempt. He seemed most comfortable when he stuck to his home ground of knitwear, or played up the house s ability with skins. Simple sportswear shapes rendered in butterscotch or vanilla-toned hides and fitted shearling coats with seams detailed in contrast leather didn t break any style ground, but will certainly speak to luxury leather fans everywhere. And though Oña Selfa lost his way with awkward knee-length hobble skirts and release-pleat wide leg trousers, the creamy wide leather belts and smartly constructed bags that ornamented many of the looks could be the start of a beautiful business.
