Naeem Khan F/W 2012: "The Body as a Canvas"

Experiencing a Naeem Khan show to say the least is magical; after 3 seasons of press covering Naeem Khan one must say that the magic is still alive along with opulence, glamour, and jaw-dropping intricate beadings and embroideries that keeps one’s eyes glued to the runway. From fashion’s elites such as Fern Mallis, Robert Verdi, and Phillip Bloch, to celebrities such as Padma Lakshmi, Matt Damon, and Holly Robinson-Peete were all in attendance for Naeem Khan’s Fall/Winter 2012 runway show.

F/W 2012 is inspired by “the decadence and dust of India,” and the notion that the ‘body’ is a medium of art and religious expression. Naeem Khan drew inspirations from India’s culture to reflect in the collection in the forms of metallic embroidery details, swirl metal beadings, with precious jewel trims set in silver and gold threading. Khan modernized ancient artistry to create body flattering, luxurious dresses and ready to wear pieces for today’s woman.

Each season I always look, and sometimes expect a beautifully executed caftan that only Naeem Khan can produce; this season was certainly no different from the once past. F/W 2012 “black and white striped georgette caftan with beaded lace edging,” exceeded all my expectations! Along with the caftan several other pieces were exceptional, such as the “black heart swirl jet beaded l/s cocktail dress with fringed hem,” and the pieces with trimmed in ostrich feathers were simply captivating.

As stunning as Naeem Khan’s Fall/Winter 2012 collection is and his success in previous collections, it was long overdue that Mercedes Benz and IMG honored such a fashion genius. As fashion recognizes Naeem Khan’s beautiful artistry and invaluable contribution to the fashion industry, one marvels at the thought of what’s next for Naeem Khan and what amazing work will he unveil for Spring/Summer 2013.

 

Michael Bastian F/W 2012: "The Extra Man"

Michael Bastian’s Fall/Winter 2012 runway show was a scene of who’s who in fashion and celebrities alike. Outside, one sees familiar faces in fashion like Robert Verdi, CFDA’s -Steven Kolb, Paper Magazine’s -Mickey Boardman, Scene Magazine’s – Peter Davis, and every Men’s Magazine Editor from Details, GQ, and Nylon to name a few. But my moment of exaltation was when Bergdorf Goodman’s Linda Fargo (the very definition of fashion refinement) steps out of her service car only 2 feet away from me. This made waiting in the freezing cold without a jacket, (only because I was rushing from Lincoln Center, and the coat check line was horribly long), well worth it!

 Themed “The Extra Man,” the collection was more like “The Leading Man!” Set against a changing season backdrop where a group in the collection reflects a different season, it was a spectacular show of American fashion exuding first class tailoring. Michael Bastian takes one through a variety of environments where man is at any given moment. From the wild outdoors, as reflected by a layered turtleneck with a plaid button down, and a heavier wool button. Next, we find the ‘businessman’, perfectly tailored 3 piece wool suits, and one button pin stripe suits can get any business done! Then, there is that casual sporty but oh’ so cool guy, reflected in the collection by colorful wool knit sweaters, a preppy combination of colored corduroys with a three button blazer. And finally, we find the style conscious man, the one that loves to push the edge of fashion and doesn’t apologize for causing a stir. From the fur collar to regal purple pants, and layered leather jackets, every stylish man can definitely enhance his style with Michael Bastian’s F/W collection.

If the collection wasn’t enough, one couldn’t help notice the amazing roster Michael Bastian’s F/W 2012 collection had, from all the top male models in the industry to an iconic male supermodel Tyson Beckford who graced the runway while on retirement! I got an opportunity to ask one of the ladies working for Michael Bastian, who happens to be next to me during the show, “How did you guys manage to get Tyson Beckford to walk this show, I thought he retired?” to which she responds, “It’s Michael Bastian, we can make anything happen!”

Reem Acra F/W 2012: Feminine Power

Reem Acra’s Fall/Winter 2012 focused on “Feminine Power” the idea that all women should be confident in their own skin and whatever they wear. Reem Acra’s namesake brand certainly resonate that effortless confidence that all women possess and empowers all women to show off their personal style. Reem Acra’s F/W 2012 collection was a juxtaposition of strength and femininity, creating that modern woman who’s not afraid to show her style.

Throughout the collection metallic was an overall theme apparent in each piece that came down the runway, but done so skillfully that it never became redundant; in fact whether applied as the entire look or applied as a trim metallic enhanced the fluidity of each ensemble giving the illusion that some pieces could have been painted on just by the way it hugged the model’s figure so well.  One particular dress that illustrates the skillful construction of Reem Acra’s design was this “multi-sequin starburst V-neck gown”, reflecting an art deco design it was so effortless but such an eye-catching gown as the light hit it from different angles.  Another breath-taking gown was the “Ebony Diamond embroidered silk chiffon gown”, it was figure flattering and an undeniable show stopper; the construction was impeccable.

Reem Acra’s return to the center stage of New York Fashion Week after a short hiatus could not have been more successful with a Fall/Winter 2012 collection so stunning that all of fashion is buzzing with anticipation to see what the designer will bring for the next season. I for one am giddy with excitement to see how Reem Acra will follow up such an impressive season.

Venexiana F/W 2012: Evening Wear Perfected!

Kati Stern’s brand, Venexiana, has been a coveted show for many fashionistas during Mercedes Benz Fashion week. For the past 3 seasons of press covering Venexiana’s runway show I have always been left breathless by the stunning evening wears that grace the runway. Each season Venexiana always has a more lengthy presentation than any other designer; boasting 70 looks for Fall/Winter 2012, but well worth every second- no other show can ever fill Lincoln Center at 9pm like Venexiana has done and  so well.

Asking one which gown, dress, or ensemble is one’s favorite is like asking which arm one can’t live without.  Exuding luxury and un-rivaled glamour, each piece from Venexiana’s F/W 2012 collection were stunning and absolutely gorgeous, but certain pieces stood out amongst the rest. For example, the laser cut black velvet gown with sheer details left the room flooded with camera flashes and that unanimous  ‘oooh’ from the crowd, a stunning statement to close the show. Another notable piece was the turquoise draped over one shoulder floor length gown with black print details, and the gold metallic one shoulder detail dress- constructed perfectly to give the illusion that liquid gold was poured on the model’s body.

I often look forward to New York Fashion Week, but in particular another chance to see a Venexiana show.