Layered dresses, lacey shoes define Monique Lhuillier's new collection

A peek into Monique Lhuillier’s Fall collection showed her variant interpretations of tailored and layered dresses and lacey shoes. This androgynous mix made for a stunning array when used on rich textures in colors of pewter gold, amethyst green, garnet red, reminiscent of a jewelry box.

 

Monique said her collection inspires opulence and drama.

 

“For day, soft snow-like whites begin the story in three-dimensional cable knits and move to abstract prints in burnished golden brocades,” she said in handouts distributed during her February 9th preview show at Lincoln Center, part of the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week series.

 

“Silhouettes range from sleekly tailored dresses and slim-cut trousers to ample color-blocked furs.”

 

“Night is all about the dramatic. Lace cigarette pants are shown with a structured tulle overlay or a beaded duster and gowns have been shortened for a modern interpretation of evening.”

 

As in her past press previews, the hall was filled to capacity. Forty models proudly sported the Hollywood designer’s stunning gowns and stilettos – shoes being her latest venture. The shoe collection features “sleek geometric cutouts in suede leather, crushed velvet and satin. Signature lace is worked into a reinterpretation of the bootie.”

 

There is something in Monique’s design that is identifiably hers. Whether it’s a long sleeved dress, a single collar coat, a draped blouse or a jumpsuit — her style is consistently classic yet evolving. Monique’s touch on embroidery, choice of colors from light to vivid, the inclusion of art deco pieces and lace — it’s amazing how she can put them together nicely.

 

For this season, Monique introduced “the trouser look,” a black floral embroidered tulle peplum top and pants with black net overskirt. This number reminds me of the Indian women’s ‘sari’ national dress. —The Fil-Am