Tag Archives: designer

Upcoming Event: Fashion Fights Cancer

Short documentary on the Fashion Fights Cancer campaign. For more information, kindly visit http://www.fashionfightscancer.com

Toni Maticevski

Toni MaticevskiToni Maticevski’s show was held off site at the Roger Williams Hotel on Sunday, September 7, 2008. Maticevski is a young Australian designer showing for the fourth time at New York fashion week. His Spring 2009 collection was inspired by both the book “Inventive Paris Clothes 1909-1939” and by the fashion of this period. His inspiration was immediately evident in several of his 1920s inspired dresses. These short dresses were hemmed with silk fringe that swung as the models walked and were reminiscent of a flapper girl’s costume.

Maticevski choose to work mostly in silk and lace, often embellished by flower appliqué or long coiled shoulder details. His draping and pleating was beautifully accomplished and at times origami-esque. A few pieces were extremely sheer, but the silhouettes of these dresses and even the boudoir feel added to the overall nostalgic mood of the presentation. The collection was exquisitely tailored and wearable yet full of interesting detail to distinguish it.
-Lyndsay Skeegan

Paola Hernandez Spring 2009

Paola Hernandez presented a very languid and luxurious show today at the Soho Grand Hotel. After the hustle and bustle of Fashion Week, it was lovely to enjoy a couple glasses of wine and interact with the models. The Mexican-born designer, Hernandez, also circled the room, describing her all-white collection. The looks were mainly androgynous, with linen sandals and large talisman rings worn by both male and female models.

There was also a runway presentation, but the models walked with exaggerated, unhurried steps, pausing several times so we could see the subtle details in the white cotton and linen pieces. The dimly lit room also added to the dreamy ambiance – I liked how clean, crisp lines were accentuated even more with shadows.

The racerback, long v-neck dress was my favorite. From afar, the piece resembled fine gauge knitwear, but the ribs and deep scoop played well on jersey for a more lavish appearance.

There were many facets to the presentation which I really enjoyed – the trim trenchcoat looked incredibly modern with the ultra-high collar. The elastic waist-banded jumpsuit was super sporty. A sharp blazer thrown over Bermuda-style shorts was fun and preppy.

– Tiffany Chang

Vicente Villarin Spring 2009

Vicente Villarin made its debut runway presentation today at the House of Bumble. For Spring 2009, Designer Joanne Cordero Reyes offered a collection of ethereal dresses, aptly named “Light Against Sky”.

It was a cool combination of chiffon and rock as undulating ruffles and pleats carried its own beat. Cathedral elements such as vivid stained glass windows and marble cream pillars were transformed into feminine silhouettes. Reyes looked to bring “pure, modern elegance” by using romantic textures and architectural influences. Linen/cotton jackets featuring charming shoulder details brought flying buttresses to mind while statuesque forms illuminated an airy and soft serenity. My favorite was a gown with appliqué made to look like rose glass shards sprinkling over the landscape of the fabric. Details were not to be overlooked, with silver zippers and gold accented shoes as finishing touches.

I am truly excited to discover another contemporary Asian designer. Reyes is Filipino American and takes her greatest inspiration from her grandfather, Vicente Villarin Cordero, who was a composer. Reyes’ highly flirty, but incredibly sophisticated line is definitely something to include in your closet and look out for on red carpets!

– Tiffany Chang

Twinkle By Wenlan Spring 2009

Twinkle by Wenlan
Twinkle by Wenlan

Twinkle by Wenlan’s Spring 2009 collection takes inspiration from 1960s iconic actress Jean Seberg. Indeed, designer Wenlan Chia infused old Hollywood glamour in a whimsical and ultra-feminine interpretation of Seberg’s “school girl charm”.

There were vintage-inspired prints galore, including splattered, sugared diamonds, cross-stitch sparrow and blossom motifs, and even an animal print suggestive of a spotted Dalmatian coat. Creamy hues of terracotta, lemon yellow, and mint green brought an upbeat, bohemian highlight. Bouncy georgette, satin chiffon, and dry voile layered sweetly over classic, masculine textures of houndstooth and oxford.

Suits were trimmed down to double-breasted strapless dresses and pleated bustiers. Wide belts cinched the look together. A structured, beehive-style updo and stacks of fabric-covered bangles added an alluring touch to the free-spirited collection.

Always noteworthy is Twinkle’s signature knitwear, which took a daintier approach this season. Cotton/cashmere loosely draped, racerback halters and dolman-sleeved sweater dresses provided a luxurious feel to the trim silhouettes.

– Tiffany Chang
photos © Dan Lucca