SACHIN + BABI SPRING 2012 RTW Women's

Chelsea Piers, NYC

words/images Judith Ecochard

SACHIN + BABI Ahluwahlia are one hard working couple---with a thriving design biz, Ankasa-their home decor brand...and their luxury textiles/hand embroideries that are made for other designers.

We haven't seen their eponymous women's rtw in three full seasons---and we remember being wowed then.

We feel this collection-in summery metallics-silver, gold- and ripe fruit tones (tangerine, watermelon, cantaloupe, blueberry)- is for the more grownup gals---maybe what the Tuleh girls would wear now...sophisticated modern apparel- PLUS terrific jewelry pieces (yup, they do that too).

Watermelon Spaghetti strap two tone maxi-easy elegance

One of our favored looks was actually inspired by a vintage B/W photo of a Palm Beach society lady, according to the couple-who we had a few secs to chat with at this packed presentation ----

The draped sleeves-with pretty pink inner lining- dramatically make this ensemble glamorous.

Clean, flattering silhouettes-dramatically draping models posing on simple white cubes--- we are sure would look great on the catwalk-and in real life---moving well on the body

So impressed, we actually stoped by Sachin + Babi's booth during the recent Coterie trade show at the Javits Center---just to see the textiles up super close...and feel the textures.

Spaghetti strap maxi dress with pleated front-tassel earrings, Rorschach tassel necklace.

Inspiration also came from the chic 70's-think Faye Dunaway---of the inspired looks of the Studio 54 crowd---probably kitted out in Halston...posh day and evening wear-we think should sell just fine.

navy metallic sleeveless maxi dress-button down back top &metallic knit skirt, Rorschach stud earring+necklace (l)
short sleeve top with solid front and overlay printed back (middle)-double spaghetti strap criss-cross back dress with contrasting trim detail

Love the over-sized floral print-w/ Rorschbach stud earring

Tassel necklace/earrings=-gorgeous

Laser cut leather skirt--year round wearable

Daywear separates----color block gray, black, white-softly tailored...reminded us of some the still very wearable Perry Ellis pieces we raided our sister's closet for---back when that great designer led the company.

But now-the fabrics are multi-textured---hard to discern in the image below= but the short sleeve shirt -is a marvel of intricacies-with leather pailette embroidery on the front and an overlay in the back.