February 16, 2009

Mara Hoffman

At Nicholas K this morning, it was dark and dramatic with lots of charcoal and black and more and more layers. There were 43 looks, but I couldn’t stop being distracted from the annoying (and pretty obscene music with words I won’t repeat…bashful face) playing in the background (of course, this is Kelly Cutrone of People’s Revolution running the show!). Even the make-up (done by the M.A.C team) was dark and sultry, much like fall is known to represent. Although, give me at least olive green and deep purple – too much grey and black begins to become drab and repetitive. (Sighting! Anna Wintour, editor of Vogue and inspiration for The Devil Wears Prada, directly across from me and decked out in the shades and fur in this photo – in the middle).

Next up (this was a combined show with three designers – to save money this season) was Sergio Davila, another urbane twist on Old-World tradition with lots of cashmere wools (and mostly menswear). Ponytails were the do of the day again (these were even crimped!), as well as lots of hoodies (and even leg warmers – gasp!).

The Mara Hoffman show brought down the house in the end with her stunning collection of ivory wool (lots of great capes and hoodies this season), subtle olive green and studded everything (hats, capes, leggings, you name it!). And hold on to your maxi dresses – these silk stunners were breathtaking in beautiful prints on the runway. Tunics and leggings (even printed!) – still the perfect combo.