Originally from the island of Hawaii, the Aloha shirt, or better yet presently known as the “tacky polo shirt”, has been dated back as early as the 1920’s. This shirt has been popular among the Hawaiian natives ever since as they wore different island-themed designs on their backs for more than one occasion. These aren’t just worn for casual days like taking a stroll down the beach, but it has been said to be worn for business events as well. 

     As years go by, specifically in the 1950’s, Aloha shirts grew even more popular as people in the show business started joining this Hawaiian fad. Stars like Elvis Presley and the Beach Boys were one of the first few people to show their admiration for the shirt on and off camera. So as the 60’s arrive, the birth of shows like Hawaii Five-O helped in keeping this look alive decades later.

     Stores today such as Topshop/Topman, American Apparel, ASOS, and Obey, have revived this so-called “tacky shirt” in attempts to bring back what used to be the hottest trend in the tropics. Even top-notch brands like Prada and Calvin Klein had their share in putting this button-down in style once more. Spring 2014 has been said to be the return of everything printed, which means these shirts are probably going to be everywhere soon. Still with its colorful and bold patterns, Aloha shirts nowadays are no different from before. The only possible difference is that some people these days look at it as if it were the biggest fashion mistake ever made. Though it may not be viewed the same as it was in its earlier years, we will definitely be seeing more of this look in the near future. Paired with some black skinnies or high-waisted shorts, you’ll look totally cool in a hot Hawaiian shirt.

     
      If you’re thinking about owning one and you are a bit out of budget, a thrift shop would be the best place to look for a nice “tacky polo shirt”!


- Reign Gonzales
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     Avant-Garde is the French word for vanguard. Vanguards, in militaristic sense, are individuals who take on the front positions in battles. Lifting it on to fashion, Avant -Gardes are individuals who, like Kawakubo, take on unorthodox approaches to style. They’re bold visionaries who patronize unconventional textures, colors, forms, and wear them all together in one single outfit.  Avant-Garde is basically pairing say a velvet blazer with denim bellbottoms and a sheer top. Even match it with a pair of Birkenstocks and a woven handbag. In a brief sense, individuals who  take on Avant-Garde are at the forefront of the trends sphere and see fashion in a whole new perspective, something that’s definitely different from the norm.

     The Avant-Garde designers would include Alexander McQueen, John Galliano and Yohji Yamammoto.


Alexander McQueen

     I think above all, Alexander Mcqueen is one of the most talented avante-garde designers of all time. I can’t even begin to summarize briefly his works because truthfully, every single garment of every single collection is an emotional ride. Every single one is an illumination of his ideas and I think his designs perfectly conveyed his individuality as a person with both perfections and imperfections. 

John Galliano

     Galliano’s ingenuity applied theatrics with fashion, and this lovely incorporation did turn out to be a wonder. As a student, he would usually have frequent visits to museums showcasing Madeleine Vionnet’s designs. His collections are in itself works of art that were ahead of his time.

Yohji Yamamoto

     Dark deconstructed garments are basically synonymous to Yohji Yamamoto and his designs insistently carry a certain appeal to it. Albeit his collections hold an ‘unfinished’ look to it, Yamamoto is skilled in tailoring - asserting that “men’s clothing looks as good on women as [my] women’s clothing.”

     
     On a last note, I think what's really fascinating about Avant-Garde is that it’s the most tangible thing we have to fantasy, may it be mythology or fairy tales. It holds no prejudice over a certain ideal and it permits freedom of expression. And in that, I say Avant-Garde is the most noble force of fashion.

                                      

- Bea Ticsay
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Sources:
http://blog.muuse.com/japanese-avant-garde-fashion-revolutionary-influence
Fashion: The 50 most influential designers of all time by Bonnie English