Joanna Mastroianni

Carrying the glory from an excellent Morrocan-themed show for Winter 2008, Joanna Mastroianni entered the modern world of architect Tony Duquette for her focus. Lace overlays gave transparency while cotton, leather and rare tulles added structure.

More lavish embroidery and popping tints of tangerine, black, lemon and chartreuse propelled the energy of the garments. Superb fuchsia overcoats, an exciting pleated lotus bolero and trousers were striking. Her brilliance came to an apex with her political message supporting same-sex unions, when models donning snowy, silk “Athena” and “Aphrodite” gowns held both hands at the end of the runway, mimicking the exchanging of the vows.

Perhaps the only designer to actually fully capitalize on the IMG Fashion Week theme… One big vote for Mastroianni!
 

Nanette Lepore

The Minnesota-born designer who started her career with a $5,000 loan displayed that she can continue to create liberating and professional-friendly clothing with her Spring 2009 collection. Flowery flounce skirts, draped knits and pant-suits, as well as appliqué and beaded paisley dresses and silk tops were extraordinarily appealing.

Cascades of hibiscus, leaves, stone, and poppies dance alongside stripes on soft leathers, silk, tulle, cotton, wool and linens. Flirtatious, powerful, practical and precisely what Nanette Lepore does best!
 

Richard Chai

The strong Vogue turnout seemed to set the support platform at Richard Chai’s Show. Chai’s collection, albeit slouchy and masculine, breathed womanliness into a bunch of sleek and sultry looks on coveted models such as Kim Noorda and Suvi Koponen. A stripped silk cerulean/cobalt pant and draped top added some electricity, as did a pewter/steel distressed pinstripe waistcoat and a crinkled chiffon black column dress with flounce and spiral pleating. In the end, Chai’s summery 2009 collection was cool, subtly sparkly and meticulous.
 

Cynthia Rowley

Time seemed to be on the mind of Cynthia Rowley for Collection One for 2009, considering the giant clock that acted as a runway backdrop.

Moving out of her dark, midnight forest fairy from Fall/Winter and into clean, urban Zurich, Rowley produced polished and professional looks for a mature and creative woman. Geometric cut-outs and shapes were stacked and beaded on luxurious tulle tanks and silk dresses. In some cases there were appliqué outlined triangles and rectangles for a very architectural vibe. Golden cuff-ball belts and glossy molded bags added sharpness.

We caught up with Julia Stiles afterwards, who vocalized her approval and demonstrated she was a fan, by wearing a lovely Rowley piece seen here.