February 11, 2010 The talented New York duo, Carly Cushnie and Michelle Ochs, behind the label Cushnie et Ochs are only on their third collection but they’ve managed to build a name for themselves in the world fashion. They first emerged on the scene only three years after graduating from college with a bevy of meticulously designed, sleek body-con dresses with strategic, cut outs and draping. Their minimalist aesthetic, with a focus on sharp and clean lines, was praised by critics and gobbled up by fashionistas hungry for simple, sexy dresses with an edgy flair. For Fall 2010, Cushnie et Ochs doesn’t stray too far away from its now signature, body-conscious dresses, but it’s fair to say for this time around the silhouettes are not so severe. The dresses are still form-fitting and but they don’t exactly scream sex like the label’s earlier frocks. The draped, lavender, criss-cross dress worn by Gracie Carvalho was a toned down brand of sex appeal. Staying true to their paired down palette this time around the duo stuck to black, grey and some taupe. Although, the collection’s wow factor lay in the phenomenal use and blending of textures like wool, leather, silk, jersey and knit in a myriad of shapes. Take for instance how they updated a leather pencil skirt by perforating it and pairing it with a mesh top or how they swath black pony hair on a wool coat. By the end of the runway show, designers Cushnie and Ochs proved that there’s more to Cushnie et Ochs than sexy dresses. This season, the duo showcased their knack for sculpting luxurious separates like thick wool sweaters with rope details and fur and leather outerwear. Already in high demand in boutiques and department stores like Neiman Marcus, this collection has solidified Cushnie et Ochs commercial viability.
