There probably isn't a better runway than the red carpet for Douglas Hannant's 2008 resort collection. Inspired by 1960s Mexico, luxe and luscious couture details that beg to be photographed define the line, while beaded cocktail dresses, full-skirted floor-length gowns and sharp cuts festooned with fabric flowers make for a
(Oscar winner Marcia Gay Harden wore this ensemble from Douglas Hannant's 2008 resort collection at the Tony Awards on Sun, June 10.)
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Just when I fully believe it's all about the maverick indie designers with their asymmetrical silhouettes, razor cut hems and more affordable prices, experienced designers like Luca Orlandi send looks like these down the runway.
(left to right: green silk and linen long jumsuit on Marie Fuema, silver silk and linen dress on Tanya)
Replete with the confident craftmanship, subtle details and spot-on styling that come from a seasoned designer who's already made his name, Luca Luca's 2008 Resort collection is Jackie O reincarnate with a little Charlotte York inspiration.
(left to right: white annd orange print top and skirt on Elsa, white silk organza embroidered dress on Ana)
Keyhole cutouts and slits, embroidered silks and eyelet lace defined the Luca Luca fashion parade held at Milk Studios in Manhattan's Meatpacking district on rainy Monday, June 4, with the occasional print spicing up the simple palette of white, sand, lemon, tangerine and silvery-gray. Turn the green jumpsuit above around and a sexy razor slit reveals a hint of back. Slip on this pleated white organza shift and float down the street as each layer moves with the rhythm of self-posessed strides.
The accessories were the perfect compliments, as apropo for cosmo girls-about-town as ladies-who-lunch. Oversized don't-recognize-me shades added a little bit of power-lunch-at-the-Ivy glam while oversized envelope clutches suggested their sophisticated holders were carrying more than lip gloss and a mirror inside.
Newsboy caps brought a touch of street to the resort as well, while preserving effortless polish.
Strappy transparent footwear -- usually associated with strippers -- were surprisingly classy and instantly classic a la the jellies you used to rock daily -- admit it -- all 1980s summer long. Matching clear plastic bags were a hit too, made, presumably, to hold pooches or beach accessories.
When Luca came out for his bow at the end of the collection, he gave a practiced wave and tipped his head in a bow exemplifying to the three members of his design team who came out with him, a confidence and experience they have to look forward to.
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