Chic.tv and filmmaker Rami Rinot Present their New York fashion week documentary on designer Tia Cibani and the label Ports 1961.

Exclusive backstage photos by Stevyn Llewellyn

Images provided by Ports 1961 © 2010-11

Tia Cibani, the creative powerhouse behind the Ports 1961 label brings Modern Glossy a preview of her spring 2011 collection. Heavy use of black and white, with electric hues dominate the line. Inspired by Patti Smith, the clothing exuded feeling of individualism, glamor and rock and roll. The silhouettes were structural yet wearable. Cibani plays with extremes in fashion, and always can channel inspiration into something unique, practical and special for the modern woman she celebrates.

Ports 1961 Fall/Winter 2010 was driven by an exploration of discovery and invention. The collection seemed to unfold and mature as each model trotted out as a free-spirited beauty. There was old world feel in the details and the model’s untamed curly hair. Other elements included architectural silhouettes, and statement jewelry like ceramic and carved wooden necklaces. Leather hats and motocross gloves added some modern roughness. Though the colors and watery prints were very muted, the play on textures and combinations of different textiles like leather, jersey, knits, tweeds, wool, chiffon, organza and lame added a wholesome variation to this globally wearable collection. Designer Tia Cibani presented an overall beautiful experience from the first moment of silence for Alexander McQueen, to the dreamy melodic music to the ultra feminine yet empowering clothes.
—Maria Giannakakis
Photos By Stevyn Llewellyn

Last season Tia Cibani went to India for her inspiration; this season the Oriental countries of the east influenced her.  Beautiful draped dresses, satin kimonos, and printed coats comprised her spring collection.  Cibani created innovative silhouettes with her origami-esque pleating and asymmetrical construction.

It is clear that Cibani gives careful consideration to every aspect of her collection.  There is an apparent evolution of her color scheme from season to season (gold lame and bright pinks last fall to mauve and silver for Pre-Spring, and now to even softer tones of pink and gray).  Even the staggered pacing of the models walking the show was unique.  Large intricate accessories such as stingray obi belts and long silk necklaces surrounded by clear vinyl completed the ensembles.

Tia Cibani is an avant-garde designer who keeps one wondering what she will come up with next- always provocative, but never outlandish.  The Ports spring collection with its subtle color scheme, interesting details, and definitive wearability was a definite success.

- Lyndsay Skeegan
Photos by Olga Lader