Reem Acra

February 20, 2015

An Exclusive New York Fashion Week Interview with Designer Reem Acra

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Before designer Reem Acra‘s fall/winter 2015 show, I had the privilege to pop backstage for an exclusive one-on-one interview with the designer to discuss the collection, accessorizing, and even a bit about social media. See below for the (transcribed) interview, which at the start was accompanied by the ultimate compliment; Reem said that she loved my necklace and that it “belonged in the collection!” Nice!

Julia DiNardo: I see that your collection is beautifully embellished, just incredible Reem! How would you accessorize something already so beautiful?

Reem Acra: You don’t need to put anything with it, but you know, I’m the type that something more is better, but it depends on the way that you layer can make it even more beautiful, sometimes beautiful earrings or even a crown could look good with it!

JD: I heard that this collection was inspired by the 70s, by Stevie Nicks portraits that she took of herself?

RA: Yes, self-portraits of herself from the ’70s; they are magical! And I translated them (the photos) right into the collection, it was good to do!

JD: And when you are thinking about the ’70s, what details or what parts of thee body or garment do you think about when you are modernizing it for the woman in 2015?

RA: I kept it very cool, very today’s girl; she is a modern, modern gypsy. I didn’t make her look old, neither did I make her look vintage-y, but I made her think that, okay, maybe a piece of it could have been from that era, but then she layered it with something that’s from today, and so rather it’s a mixture of silhouettes and texture, and the lengths are just so modern. Nothing about it is old or has been seen before.

JD: So it’s the modern mix?

RA: Yes, exactly, the modern mix of dressing today.

JD: And my last question: thinking about social media; have you used it or looked at  Instagram to interact with clients or customers? Are you fascinated by it?

RA: I’m fascinated with it of course because I’m a newcomer, and this is the first time that I’ve hired a specialist and she is guiding me on how to go forward with social media because I think it’s the only way and the best way to really get our customers directly, so I’m excited; it’s the future!

See additional images from Reem Acra’s fall/winter 2015 show here, and follow along on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

 

February 11, 2014

NYFW Fall 2014: Reem Acra

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reem acra fall 2014

[Photo via Style.com]

For fall 2014, Reem Acra set the clock at midnight and transported us to Paris, where we attended a party that can only be described as “frosted.” As always, the designer proves she’s quite masterful at embellishments. Glistening, spindly branches traveled up the sheer bodices of gowns while layers of chiffon draped naturally to the floor. These silhouettes were especially delicate, making for a crop of dresses that can be appreciated alone, without an ounce of jewelry or any other accoutrements.

reem acra fall 2014

[Photo via Style.com]

 On the other hand, there were plenty of ultra-modern, structured garments. From violet wool co-ordinate sets with full, A-line skirts, to thick, double-belted trench coats and silky velvet bomber jackets, there were plenty of looks for the edgier sort. But, somehow, the entire range could be deemed appropriate for the same soirée.

Perhaps such fluidity was due to the harmonizing color palette. While the first few designs were limited to black, it wasn’t long before amethyst, pale pink, pastel blue, metallic gold, and, finally, a striking red, emerged to help set the lively tone.

Lastly, although it may not be the most noticeable detail of the clothes, Acra presented us with a diverse range of sleeves this season, and completed a few of the ensembles with fur shoulder wraps. One thing’s certain—this is a collection that is sure to invite head turns.

September 12, 2013

NYFW Spring 2014: Reem Acra, Katie Gallagher

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reem acra spring 2014

[Image via ELLE.com]

The Show: Reem Acra

The Theme: ’70s disco glamour

The Color Palette: Black, Gold, Orange, and Red

The Collection’s Signature, Standout Look:   All that glitters was sent down the runway for Reem Acra‘s nightlife inspired collection. While there were a few houndstooth pieces that were grounded in the daytime, it was the party dresses and gowns that really caught our eye. A golden draped one shoulder column dress recalled the glamorous days of Studio 54 and would transform any girl into the reigning queen of the party.  Essential ingredients of tulle, chiffon and silk were scattered throughout the final gowns that could easily transition from walking the red carpet to burning up the dance floor.
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