Monique Lhuillier on her spring collection: ‘Can’t wait to wear them.’
Monique’s backstyles…
…and bandeau. Photos by Elton Lugay
By Elton Lugay
Monique Lhuillier showcased her latest designs at New York Fashion Week with a Spring 2014 collection marked by wearability and “relaxed elegance.”
“It feels like there’s a relaxed elegance about it,” she told this reporter after her set at the Mercedes Benz-sponsored event held at the Lincoln Center. “I’m excited about it because it feels new and I can’t wait to wear the clothes myself.”
All 39 pieces were breathtaking. Whether it’s a long, flowing gown or a cocktail, after-work number, they all carry the Monique trademark of elegant femininity.
“This season is dedicated to delicately balanced textures, innovative layering and sophisticated ease,” says the press handouts. “A rich color palette of coral, fuchsia and red pop against neutrals like cream, soft rose gold and nude.”
Monique’s daywear collection featured textured organza with metallic threading offering “a glimpse of cropped bandeaus while lace tunic dresses and pencil skirts skim below the knee.” Alternatives to skirts are palazzo pant rompers to lace sweaters with removable embellished collar.
Evening gowns are in rich chocolate browns in ombre chiffon with elegant draping. “Separates, like ball gown skirts and cropped bandeaus are a new interpretation of traditional eveningwear.”
One piece that stood out — and concededly Monique’s favorite as well — is the persimmon silk-gazar bandeau featuring a strapless top with fabric gathered and fit around the bust. This particular top was paired with a floral printed draped skirt. Monique said she’s proud of it as intends to introduce this as a new style for eveningwear.
The Cebu-born designer shuttles between stores in L.A. and New York
“I love the two piece floral skirt with a bandeau top in like, a fuschia. I thought that’s a new way for dressing for the evening,” she told The FilAm.
The shoe collection is another eye-popping marvel. It featured “hybrid” gladiator-and-pump sandals in matte leather and soft suede. Details featured architectural touches with studs and two-tone hues of coral and chocolate.
Among the celebrities who came to support Monique’s segment were actresses/songwriters Emmy Rossum and Rose McGowan and professional wrestler and former George Clooney girlfriend Stacy Keibler.
“I love Monique’s designs. Simple yet elegant,” said marketing executive Grace Labaguis of Essential Consulting Services. “The lace and sheer designs make her style so feminine and unique.”
Stylist—Tina Laakkonen
Hair—Bob Recine for Moroccanoil
Makeup—Val Garland and The Mac Pro Team
Nail Lacquer and Design—Butter London
Shoes—Monique Lhuillier Footwear
Undergarments—Commando
