Que the...society?

The fashion industry is one constantly concerned with change. It is one that is part of the huge feedback loop that is modern industry, and one prides itself with keeping two fingers on the pusle of society, while at the same time making dictations to it.
We are currently living in a world of great upheaval. Ideas and institutions that have seemed to last the test of time are collapsing, a war over ideals is raging in the middle east, and the optimism of a new generation and administration is battling its way forward.
How does and industry so concerned with selling make its grand statement. It seems that no two designers is taking the same route. The war may be behind the a few of the looks this season. Balmain seemed to take ques from classic military garb.  Showing strong cuts in jackets and trousers, heavy materials and military style adornments including high heeled combat boots.

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While the "hippy" mood of the ani-war 70's was in full force at the Louis Vuitton show.  Mr. Jacobs channeled inspirations of the era by quaffing his models in sky high afros, and modeling his color palet in the neutrals of the time interspersed with bright pops of disco worthy colors, layered with fringe and tribal prints.

As for a general mood the field seems just as mixed. Chanel seemed to show a certain cheeky innocence. Using his traditional venue of the Grand Palais he created his own barnyard. The models donned a mix of cremes and reds on top of the houses traditional palette black and white. The sense of silly escapism was echoed in the models general appearance. Seeming fresh from a "roll in the hay" they teetered across the runway in sky high clogs, a rouge-ish wink from the application of mid thigh rosaries.

The frivolity of Chanel was contrasted by a darker fantasy was shown at John Galliano. Ethereal fabrics flowed across a bloody runway. The graceful shapes founded on platforms of ridiculous proportions. The looks finished with a dementedly coquettish finish seem to translate a darker, more unsure sentiment.

The collections span the board. It seems that each appeals to its own niche. In a society that seems to be splintering into pieces the design of dressing people is diversifying just the same. The general sense of a season is never one of perfect cohesion but now more so than ever it seems like each is going their own way. So what does this mean? Is this diversity a effect of fashion or society? Which is in the lead and who is following? Or does it even matter at all? ;)