Malan Breton Spring/Summer 2012

Malan Breton Spring/Summer Collection

Taiwanese born, self-taught designer Malan Breton opened his spring/summer 2012 fashion show with a graceful ballerina pirouetting to the melodic strums of live harp and violin music. 
His collection that followed was just as elegant but with a modern edge.  The ladylike womenswear had plenty of show stopping see-through hats and fascinators. The dresses had bold patterns in stripes or flowers in primary colors.  There was an evident Japanese influence in the silhouettes with kimono pieces and gowns with interesting oragami shapes, especially in the back.  Sheer seems to be a popular texture, with lots of organdy and chiffon.  But the menswear was where Malan Breton really stood out with classic looks in unique and bright color combinations, such aa silver and gold paired with neutral espresso, grey or blue trousers and shorts.  The men looked as if they belonged in another era with their slick pompadours.  I could see these pieces being worn in any time period. The show closed with the famed and ageless model Irina P. gliding across the catwalk in a Black Silk Organdy Chrysalis Corsetiere Gown.

Fashionable Tots

I can't believe Fashion Week is over! It was really hectic.  I drank too much coffee, carried way too many bags (does that count as exercise?), and saw a record breaking amount of shows, which means I have much catching up to do with writing.  But I feel so fortunate to have been part of this Fashion Week.  I loved seeing all the stylish (and dressing up myself).  Anyhow, I thought I would share pics of these adorable and fashionable children I spotted at the recent Daryl K show.  More pics to come!

Monique Lhullier Spring/Summer 2012

Monique Lhullier, known for her bridal wear and red carpet gowns, strayed from her usual and showed a line of sportier looks at her Spring/Summer 2012 fashion show at Mercedes Benz Fashion Week.  "With women more into fitness and healthy lifestyles, I compliment their physique using intricate seaming to outline the body".  Body hugging gowns in cobalt blue, cadminton yellow, with color blocking and sequins along the fron and sides created a streamlined effect, reminding me of a sports car.   Monique Lhullier also used leather accents for an edgy contrast with the soft chiffon gowns.  The collection was very flattering and slimming, embracing the female physique.   

Christian Siriano Spring/Summer 2012

Christian Siriano Spring/Summer 2012 -    Christian Siriano showed a strong collection of effortlessly glamorous designs this season.  The show began with sleek looks with fresh pops of tropical shades in chartreuse and coral paired with neutral white and oyster.  It appears that long, lean silhouettes will still be a strong trend next season. Long chiffon skirts and crepe drawstring waist wide leg pants in chartreuse and coral looked chic and easy.  Siriano's organza pleated maxi skirt paired with white jersey sleeveless oxford elongated the already lengthy legs of the models, which is a look that many will find appealing.  A coral crepe oxford with textured chiffon sleeve gave an otherwise simple shell brocade pencil skirt an extra edge and structure.

"For Spring'12, my inspiration is exotic tropical underwater specimens found while traveling to Bali, Honduras, and Belize." said Siriano in his program notes.  One of his chiffon gowns had bands of sheer and textured chiffon in oyster, giving the impression of being a delicate,  floating creature, perhaps a jellyfish.  The show ended with all the models gliding down the runway in a cloud of gorgeous gowns and sexy cocktail dresses with textured applique in chiffon and tulle.   Christian Siriano Gold  Shoes For Payless were also whimsical and fun in design with lots of organic shapes and bright colors.  For fans of the Project Runway winner and for anyone seeking great looks that stand out from the crowd, you won't be disappointed.

textured chiffon sleeve paired with shell brocade pencil skirt

Silk Striped Bustier Tulle Ball Skirt

Nicholas K Spring/Summer 2012

At the Nicholas K Spring/Summer 2012 fashion show, soft layered looks in muted tones inspired by the beauty of nature created interesting shapes and shadows.  Beautifully draped pieces with hoods were romantic and sporty at the same time.  The accessories were perfect for the collection with bohemian headscarves, super long fringed leather bracelets and fringed scarves.  This was my first time attending a Nicholas K show, and I  looking forward to seeing more of their work.