Korto Momolu S/S 2012: Lure of the Orient!

America's Next Top Model Alum: Aminat

Aminat working the runway

Project Runway alum Korto Momolu has taken her place in the fashion world with her signature prints and influences from her roots in Liberia, mixing with modern silhouettes while keeping true to her strong, sophisticated, and elegant woman. Her Spring / Summer 2012 collection explored the artistry of Japanese culture, from ways of the Samurai to the beauty of the Kimono. Korto's use of amazing prints on delicate silks juxtapose the structure of the Samurai's way way life, but definitely reflects the beauty and elegance of the kimono. One can't help love the draping on several pieces, with a little punch of color either thru the accessories or a thin belt to give it a bit of spice. I believe Korto defines sophisticated, chic, and elegance in the textiles and colors she uses; all the while making every piece comfortable and wearable thru her silhouettes. Korto Momolu may have not won Project Runway, but her success speaks volumes and is truly inspirational to all aspiring designers to keep fighting and to keep moving forward!!

MATAANO S/S 2012: Vibrant Tropical

Inspired by their visit to the island of St. Lucia, Mataano's designers used contemporary comfortable silhouettes with a nod to the 60's and 70's era. An explosion of vibrant colors and tropical prints ruled the Spring / Summer 2012 runway. I was particularly taken back, considering I was born in the islands. This collection took me back to a more laid back 'island' lifestyle, when people took the time to admire the flora all around and take time out of their day to enjoy the environment and the people- this collection exemplifies such an ease in life. Mataano's pallette this season simply brings a smile to one's face.



Francis Hendy S/S 2012 : Return to NYFW

After several years of absence from New York Fashion Week, Francis Hendy reclaims his throne with color infused 'caribe' inspired menswear. For the past couple of years Hendy has been absent from the New York circuit opting instead to show his collections in the Carribean and Canada, but now he brings a life of color and tropical inspiration for his Spring/Summer 2012 collection. Bursting with exotic prints, his casual pieces were definitely a statement on its own, but it was the quality tailoring of the suit separates that caught one's eye. I find it refreshing that a designer isn't afraid to punch colors into formal wear such as suits, I feel it gives it some versatility where one may wear it together for an amazing statement, but also wear the jacket and the pant separately paired with a muted piece for a daytime event. Welcome back Francis Hendy, but little do most people know- you never really left! With impeccable tailoring and a master craftsman it's no wonder why celebrities like Jay-Z, Beyonce, Rhianna, and the Black Eyed Peas continue to support Francis Hendy's style and creations.

photos by fashionfotowire.com

photo by fashionfotowire.com

photos by Dopefiles.com

photo by dopefiles.com



Naeem Khan S/S 2012: Glamour!

An explosion of color sets the tone for Naeem Khan's Spring/Summer 2012 collection. From fuschias to saffron, to yellows and crimson, royal blue to floral prints, and on top add sparkles and glittering gold- all the ingredients needed for GLAMOUR!! Floor sweeping gowns in feather trims or simply fluid were all stunning with punches of shine and shimmer. What brings an amazing gown isn't by making it huge and over bearing, it's how the piece flatters the body, and every piece of this collection hugged the body in all the right places. Yet, one of the key pieces I fell in love with was the black and gold caftan piece, it had the right accent of glam, but most importantly it spoke comfort- it draped stunning on the model and one can see that it can be flattering on any body type. Absolutely, the closing dress was the 'big bang' in a color sea of fireworks, it had an eye catching asymmetrical one shoulder top with metallic fringes all around, and a well tailored ball gown skirt to compliment, it was BOLD in its own right and commanded attention with classic sublty.

one of my top picks

Closing Dress..definite WOW piece

Nomia S/S 2012 : Color Blocking Clean

Nomia S/S 2012 collection presented clean fluid lines with a retro color pallette color blocked in separate pieces. I have to admit I do like the monotone pieces both with the solid fabric and sheer layering. My favorite of the collection was the turquois pants paired with a brown sleeveless top. It seems fluid silhouettes are here to stay specially those nostalgic of the chic 70's era.

Jad Ghandour S/S 2012: Gold Jetsetter

Gold is the color of KINGS, and Jad Ghandour Spring / Summer 2012 collection speaks to royalty with gilded pieces ruling the runway presentation. From corsetted waistline, peakaboo cut outs on shimmering dresses, to an armour like ensemble with a bit of a 'naughty nautical' feel, to the barely there gold trunks each piece was super sexy! In this modern take I feel the collection speaks to the socialite 'jetsetter' going from his/her yacht, unto an amazing safari or tour of an exotic landscape, and off to dinner in a romantic chateau- and all she would need is this collection to change from one adventure to the next.

The baby tiger and lion in the beginning of the runway lends itself nicely to the exotic ambiance and feel of the collection, but not every piece was about the exotic cold feel of gold, in fact sevral key pieces were a wonderful array of soft 'red-carpet' worthy ensembles. In the dresses above it's amazing how Jad Ghandour makes gold feel so soft paired with silk satin as a bustline plate on one dress, and a shoulder detail with the silk blouse and tulle skirt.

Jad Ghandour