Every season, Christian Siriano references old Hollywood glamor in some way. For Pre-Fall, Siriano continued that approach, though this time around with more unlikely persuasions: Irving Penn and his ultra-chic wife Lisa Fonsagris, who are often considered the first supermodels. The designer was so taken with the Swedish beauty’s timeless, elegant wardrobe that he wanted to channel the mood with his new evening assortment. “Everything has a bit of a vintage feel,” he said.
Naturally, Siriano enlisted her muse — her longtime friend, Coco Rocha — to model the new frock. The opening look is a strapless black gown with large beaded studs. . One gown had a metallic gunmetal tulle base, with gathered tulle stripes for a more 3-D effect. Tulle is one of Siriano’s favorite fabrics: He also can’t resist incorporating it into tiered, full-skirted ball gowns, which appear in his line every season.
For those for whom full-on princess dresses don’t fly, many of the looks here are designed as two-pieces, for a little more ease. A white, structured off-the-shoulder top—more minimalist—was paired with a tiered skirt—more maximalist. Her bright blue skirt suit also pushed the line of conservative yet flashy. Meanwhile, menswear replaced the boldness of Hollywood. Sheer black lace tops and a white tuxedo suit with a built-in cape subverted trade men’s evening wear in a way that felt fresher than its female counterpart. He carried the feeling of being full of equality. Siriano Who can see the shock of such a theatrical style? “Jacob Alverdi needs to wear this,” he said. “Or Alton Mason and Coleman Domingo.”
