Given the current state of the economy (and turbulent times in general), Naeem Khan said she didn’t feel right venturing outside of her basic classics, so she zeroed in on her signature glamorous evening gowns instead. “We looked at all our styles and fabrics that were working, and then gave them a little twist,” he explains. “In terms of design, it’s always a challenge. To keep my business alive, I have to make sure I don’t bend it too far.”
But don’t be fooled: the designer still had fun playing with luxury materials and embellishments. A black crepe gown and matching bolero jacket were carefully hand-embroidered with silver beads. “Hame diamond has a refraction to catch the light and sparkle, so I apply the bead the same way,” he notes.
Her long-sleeved tulle gown with floral metallic bursts felt young and fresh and surprisingly practical too. “You can pack it up and go. No ironing required,” he said. Another sheer, long-sleeved mesh creation had loops of gold and black raffia embroidery for a more textured feel.
During this time many strapless, full-skirted gowns were made in laces boasting floral and leaf patterns. “It’s like a guipure lace, but I spun it in metallic silk,” Khan said. “This evening is structured.” He did them in colors like beige, green and lavender. It’s a season within a season, Khan designed a palette that would speak to both a summery and a ventriloquist mood. “It’s a temporary season, and my clients are global,” he explained.
