(Reuters) — Bold colors and shapes were the theme for Monique Lhuillier’s spring 2016 collection at New York Fashion Week: The Shows on Saturday (September 12).
Stepping out of her usual practice, Lhuillier isn’t showing any of the classic ball gowns that made her a household name.
“That’s why I wanted to step away from that. Because I felt like people have that from me, now it’s like – fashion keeps evolving and it’s about what’s the next thing. It would be a show if people were expecting that.”
The California-based designer said her love of art was the catalyst for the line.
“It started from looking at a lot of contemporary art. I love contemporary art and this season I looked at Ellsworth Kelly paintings and the vibrant colors sparked an idea. And then I also thought how do we keep it young and modern and new. And thought doing sculptures shapes but also containing them.”
Lhuillier’s collection was filled with bold electric colors, which she called lipstick pink, strawberry reds and azure blue. The combination made the collection feel modern and new with a sophisticated edge.
Shoes from Lhuillier’s line had a thicker heel and were paired with body hugging dresses to create a whimsical feel.
Peplum tops and column silhouettes with embroideries were created with classic material and recycled metals. Prints had a scribble effect with helped to create disjointed chaos.
Lipstick pink silk strapless draped bodice with train, coral silk column skirt by Monique Lhuillier. (Courtesy Reuters)
Staying on trend for spring, lace was found on many looks.
“This is one of my party dresses that’s in this beautiful sculpture skirt with an iridescent lace underneath and then I embroidered it with all these pedals. But it’s in a plastic material so it feels modern and edgy and really very artful.”
New York Fashion Week: The Shows will run until September 17.
