September 13, 2011
by fashion pulse contributor
[Images Courtesy of Payless]
Before any model graced the runway at Lela Rose, the designer played “Imagine” in its entirety, a song reminiscent of peace; one world, one people. Only then did she begin her runway collection of beautiful, whimsical, overtly feminine pieces. Rose drew on a variety of inspirations from Vegas neon signs, the Coney Island amusement park, and graveyards to create signature checked spring jacquard and “carousel” cotton prints. Cinched waist dresses appeared in navy, white, gray, yellow, pink and more. Airy polka dotted skirts flounced by, cute cardigans made a sweet statement, and gold metallic floor length gowns reigned. A striking orange jacket, sure to stop traffic, left a lasting impression in classic structure. Pattern, embellishment, and even a few feathers made an elegant appearance on this runway. She also unveiled the latest Lela Rose for Payless ShoeSource collection. The footwear proved to be as vibrant as the clothing with graphic shapes and resin studding. When all is said and done, Lela Rose successfully crafted an approachable, girly collection for SS12.
–Alana Quagliariello
September 12, 2011
by fashion pulse contributor
Pulling from her background in both luxury and contemporary design, Joy Cioci’s goal is to always create modern apparel with luxurious detailing. The effortless wear of the clothing does not speak to the intimate thought process behind the vision. The SS12 collection felt fun and youthful in its colorful majesty (blue, red-orange, chartreuse, and white). Day dresses in cotton and silk were paired with wide, brimmed floppy hats. Lace popped up in blouses, yet leather arrived on shorts and pleated pants. For me, however, the showstopper was the cotton black crochet lace blouse paired with the silk chiffon black and white motion stripe print maxi skirt. Cioci’s goal is to design with love, and it’s hard not to be smitten with her aesthetic.
–Alana Quagliariello
September 11, 2011
by fashion pulse contributor
St. John for Spring 2012, held at the St. John boutique on Fifth Avenue, proved that all-American glamour could very well be effortlessly chic. Creative Director George Sharp drew on Carly Simon for inspiration in her embodiment of free-spirited glamour. With ribbed knit separates in grey and white, cream blazers, pleated pants, deep v-neck halters, and floor length liquid gowns, the collection will be desired by any modern woman aspiring to dress with sophisticated ease. The muted palette ushers in a hushed sex appeal, but sportswear at the brand still maintains it’s cool, crisp, sharpness.
–Alana Quagliariello
September 8, 2011
by Julia DiNardo
If Steven Alan’s collection for last spring was inspired by Mediterranean adventures, it is clear that for Spring 2012 he has returned to his homeland as he recalls Americana at its best. Steven Alan breathed fresh air into 60’s styling, updating classic looks with subtle quirks. Menswear and womenswear alike embraced a sunny palette of blues, greens, whites and neutrals with a few pops of yellow and orange. His prints, like his silhouettes, were dyed with nostalgia offering gingham, stripes, and vintage inspired sea-shell patterns.
For menswear, the emphasis was on lightweight and relaxed, but well tailored, skinny suiting- both pant suits and short suits. On the more playful side, were shorts with brightly colored contrast hems and a baseball tees. Rolled up pants showed off Walk-Over Shoes in light suede chukkas and derbies as well as standard black Vans.
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