Bess

Sleep is less of a priority during fashion week, a fact of which Bess took full advantage last Sunday, presenting their fall 2011 collection at the debauchery-potent nightlife staple Don Hills. Embracing fashion’s long-standing affinity for androgyny, a male model sashayed through the throng of black clad guests in tight and skin-bearing pants, low-rise enough to show off a taut red thong. All male eyes were smeared with black kohl, enhancing the drama of the splatter-painted and studded leather, while pink lips were paired with gaudy rainbow-sequined sunglasses. Female eyes were girdled by lustrous primary and secondary colors, playing up their uber-tight thigh-grazing dresses.

-Maria Eilersen

MORBID BEAUTY: BESS A/W 2010

[Image via ssense.com]

Held at the historic St. Marks theatre, the aged venue immediately evokes an essence of Bess’ A/W 2010 Collection. After complimentary absinthe, the red curtain unveils the first model who creeps across the stage to the eerie soundtrack of a Japanese lullaby. Bess’ designs are hauntingly beautiful, thematized by a rich variety of texture in the form of black lace, leather, fur and stitches. The morbid undertone recalls Tim Burton’s endearing dark characters, epitomized by embellishments of rough patchwork on fitted leather. We love the macabre aesthetic – as do other creative experts including Alexander Wang and Marc Jacobs. Check out our favorite looks below or experience the enchanting Bess fairy tale here.

MODERN ELEGANCE: ROBERT TONNER A/W 2010

DSCN2077

Robert Tonner is a true gentleman, a trait that thoroughly resonates in his designs. The collection epitomizes elegance and was aptly previewed at the oh-so-fitting Algonquin Hotel. In fact, the talented designer claims the venue “became a part of [his] inspiration, fueled by his affinity for the space’s “vintage feeling.” The other half of his influence is drawn from the heroine of his newly finished novel, Ellowyne Wilde, who typifies the modern city woman. With their hair pulled tight into an exaggerated Audrey Hepburn-like bun, three models at a time flaunt fitted female suits, romantic ruffles and elaborately embroidered evening gowns in the glow of antique chandeliers. Below are some of our favorite looks:

DSCN2063

DSCN2070

WELCOME TO THE LAND OF CHADWICK BELL: F/W 2010

DSCN2107 Carefully placed live mannequins showed off Chadwick Bell’s A/W 2010 Collection at La Venue in the Meatpacking District last night. Doused in tranquil earth tones, his designs were simple & refined. Despite the rather limited preview, the line is pregnant with aesthetic intrigue: seductively exposed backs, wooden heels and low-yet-sophisticated necklines.