February 11, 2011
Jason Wu’s Fall 2011 presentation took place in a remote location well off the beaten path, but that didn’t stop editors and fashion enthusiasts from braving the winter frost to see his latest foray. The former CFDA award winner began his show with muted blacks and gray flannels, luxuriously uplifted by lace embroidery and floral appliques. The collection literally exploded with color and verve once Wu introduced a few standout pieces: a Swarovski crystal embellished charcoal wool anorak, an ostrich feather dress, and lovely jackets in ultraviolet, cherry red, and burgundy. The colors and gold edged baroque clutches looked positively lovely on Joan Smalls, and on Jourdan Dunn who closed the show in a cerise pink silk chiffon strapless gown with gold leaf embroidery.
Nicole Miller
February 11, 2011
For Fall 2011 dress aficionado Nicole Miller took a departure from her usual fair with menswear inspired elements like black techno jersey trousers and digital print lightweight wool coats. Wide legged and slim cut pants were fashioned in gray scale with flashes of cranberry and cerulean blue; dresses were revamped with geometric details in pale blue and white. Celebrity stylist June Ambrose, who sat front row next to Taraji P. Henson and Gabrielle Union said, “[This show] was definitely a departure. It was forward for her, it was edgy.” Regarding which pieces all fashionistas should have in their wardrobe come fall, Ambrose said, “I loved the structured cape. It was a great, well-done, noteworthy piece. The tuxedo was beautiful, I love shiny. It reminded me of my early Puffy Days. And lastly the leather pants were amazing. For fall we should be focused on ready to wear and classic, wearable pieces.”
Byron Lars
February 11, 2011
Legendary designer Byron Lars took a trip downtown to the Native American museum to find inspiration for his latest collection aptly titled, ‘Native Americana.’ The resulting presentation mixed classic American silhouettes with indigenous elements like multicolored bead necklaces, feather flecked hats, and tribal eye makeup. Lars has been designing for over 15 years, and his unquestionable skills were apparent in a lace and cable knit black turtleneck dress, an off shoulder silver belted shift, and wonderfully draped coats. Actress Anika Noni Rose, who was in attendance, said she appreciated the designer because, “He makes things for curves, but he also does chic. I want something that will make me feel lovely, and that I can move comfortably in. I appreciate chic, and I’m glad to see that [with Lars] it’s coming back.”
