Fashion Blog

NEW YORK, Feb 10, 2008 / FW/ — What is always amazing about Monique Lhuillier is her ability to take inspiration from something that is considered a classic, rework it and then come up with a look that is modern, contemporary and turns into an instant classic the moment it hits the runway.

For Fall 2008, the Los Angeles-based designer was inspired by the 1920s flapper look and the Art Deco movement, creating sculptural pieces that are both artistic and wearable, something very hard to accomplish even with very experienced designers.

Take the one-shoulder bubble gown in black. A big bow on the shoulder that is lying flat turns into a figure-hugging bodice with a tiny waist. It then flares into a bubble that ends right above the knee, and then flares again for ease of movement. In the hands of a less experienced designer, this would have turned flat. But not with Monique Lhuillier whose masterful execution just made it perfect.

There is also the mustard yellow mini adorned with circles; the collar is actually a set of encrusted semi-precious stones, hence there is no need to wear jewelry anymore when you put this dress on. What is amazing is in this outfit is the seemingly simple silhouette, but without the proper touches are the right places, this would look dated. Again, Monique Lhuillier was very successful in making it look fun.

Season after season, Monique Lhuillier shows growth as a designer, proposing something new. Fall 2008 once again illustrates Lhuillier’s maturity in her craft.

(Photo courtesy of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week)