America's Choice [Thom Browne Pre-Fall 2013

Designer Thom Browne is best known for extreme silhouettes, and colorful runway shows, but after today he will be known as the designer behind FLOTUS Michelle Obama's Inauguration ensemble. The First Lady wore a custom coat from Browne's surprisingly wearable Pre-Fall collection. The ensuing press coverage couldn't have come at a better time for the designer. His Pre-Fall showing was a tempered affair. The silhouette was trimmed down to normal proportions with sharp shoulders, cinched waists and full skirts. He mixed things up with texture and pattern, using various scales of gingham, tweed and houndstooth often in a single garment. The A-line skirt in the first look is a good example. Browne also put his experience from collaborating with Moncler to good use crafting some exceptional outerwear pieces. The double breasted coat in navy with fur collar is perfection. With such a commercially geared collection, I imagine Mr. Browne will see the desired traction at retail.