This is Nancy Lichtenstein’s last New York Fashion Week blog posting and LA-Story would like to thank her for her time and effort in attending these events- particularly since like Nanette Lepore– she’s a MOM too!
After viewing somber pieces from Chris Benz’s Fall 2007 collection at Saks, I wasn’t expecting to love his Spring show (especially since it’s been so heavily hyped leading up to Fashion Week), but I did.
I caught a glimpse of the designer backstage, and his personal style leads me to believe what I saw earlier in the day had more to do with the buyer at Saks than his own vision. He looks like one of those eccentric but cool guys we all went to college with whose conversation is over most people’s heads.
Seafoam Green Dress: Photo courtesy of Style.com, photographer: Marco Madeira
His clothes had a joy in them that reminded me of little girls playing dress-up.
Pink Dress with Orange Sweater Photo courtesy of Style.com, photographer: Marco Madeira
Featured colors were orange, yellow, hot pink and pale green, anchored by off-white and grey (but in metallic this time so there was no heaviness).
Pink Gown Photo courtesy of Style.com, photographer: Marco Madeira
Texture varied and included chiffon mixed with satin and even some plaid accents that looked like they might be made of flannel, although it was hard to tell, as some of the models were seated.
Off-white dress with bias cut. Photo courtesy of Style.com, photographer: Marco Madeira
Benz does bias-cut draping beautifully, combining a youthful vibe with effortless looking glamour. Like the hair, the clothes were long, loose, and flowing. He managed to turn a retro inspiration into a thoroughly modern look with a strong point of view, and if the large floppy hat really does come back this year, he will be single-handedly responsible.
Nancy Lichtenstein
