June 28th, 2021
On My Mind
Photographer Elfie Semotan Inspired
When I saw the self-portrait above by Austrian photographer Elfie Semotan in the July/August issue of Vogue Germany, I was reminded of her enviable personal style. Tailored pieces, many from close friend Helmut Lang, are the foundation of her signature look. Elfie walked in a number of Helmut’s shows that I worked on and I was always a bit awed by her. At 80, Ms. Semotan’s enduring style continues to inspire.
I added the NYT’s blurb from 2006 for a bit of personal history. And, three looks from Helmut Lang shows below.
I love that she is wearing a black coat over a navy sweater and slacks with a hint of white near the face. One of my favorite combinations of color.
Nice to see someone on the runway representing what a real woman’s body might be like instead of a rail thin model. She looks fabulous.
Did you ever meet her? I think there was a doc about her recently.
Yes, she was in many of the shows I cast for Helmut and the documentary was released last summer.
I love this post. There is so much value, monetarily and aesthetically, to a timeless wardrobe. Helmut Lang was ahead of his time in many ways. Elfie Semotan looks amazing on the catwalk- she has stood the test of time as have Lang’s designs from the 80’s and 90’s. This is what we want to look like at 80! This post makes me want to go on the hunt for vintage Helmut Lang! This is a great example of why I have followed your blog, Preston, since you began! It is always on point. Thank you!
I agree wholeheartedly with Holly! Ms. Semotan is adorable! Adults are so chic! : ))
Europeans especially honor and value their ‘older’ women and men ~ and I believe it makes for a healthier and richer society. American culture is so stuck on youth and ‘celebrity’ ~ even when they aren’t that bright or talented and have no actual accomplishments. We have a vacuum of culture right now.
I love love love this post.
Inspiring! So elegant.
Love everything about this post.
Thank you!
This post is timeless – as is Elfie. I have always loved her look, and oh how I miss Helmut Lang, sadly, I only have one pair of trousers left…..
Her eye, her art, her style.
Also a huge Helmut Lang fan, not surprised it’s a common theme for us here in KiC world. Her style is so truly her own and that’s the enviable and inspirational thing for me. Thanks for the snippet.