LYRA MAG.

Grace Building, Sixth Avenue-NYC April 9, 2009 Words, Images Judith Ecochard Many women we know…hit the men’s or boys clothing department to buy the classic staples---like blazers and long sleeve Oxford shirts for themselves. …Giving real meaning to the “The Boyfriend” look. And we thought of that as we entered the spacious Perry Ellis headquarters the other day…and got an initial glimpse of the fashionably attired mannequins…outfitted in fresh Fall 2009 separates that our boyfriends would actually wear. And the first thought that flooded our brain cells was ‘how about a women’s line?’ We so wanted some Perry Ellis ladies’ looks…especially for our two top picks: ... a deep black leather-like (really) $80 Motorcycle-Biker jacket that’s has just enough street style cred. And a thick, cable knit grey sweater that is a refreshing update on the unisex one everyone buys in Ireland. LUCKY US---we got some time with John Crocco , the talented veteran Creative Director/style guru of Perry Ellis

Brooklyn Duo Still Drapes Perfection April 3rd, 2009 Soho, NYC-STARWORKS NY SHOWROOM Jeffery Costello and Robert Tagliapietra may look like plaid shirt attired lumberjacks…but like many gurus (in their case, masters of the draped/twisted jersey)…these two guys command a devoted cult following. The Fall 2009 collection of sensuous dresses and separates are made of a proprietary “blend” of Ultrasuede jersey , which amazingly is drip dry…or so we were told. The précise cuts of the fabric and construction details are impeccable. Subtle Swarovski crystal embellishments on some pieces added just a hint of sparkle. But seeing/feeling the garments up close in the showroom…confirms that all one needs are some strappy heels/kickers to complete a LOOK. Flattering styles are a rarity in Fashion with a capital “F” ...and Costello Tagliapietra has many ensembles that would really work for all shapes. So too the color palette---in charcoal, tobacco, cement and dark greys, autumnal orange and bone

“EXPRESS OF THE ORIENT” April 2, 2009, SOHO-NYC Words, Images Judith Ecochard We missed the initial staging of designer Alice Temperley’s Fall Collection back in February…but love her artistic knit dresses that remind us of whimsical color field paintings- So we hauled it downtown to the showroom, StarworksNY that reps this British creative talent on this side of the Pond. IMHO: Yes, the Orient theme is elegantly played out in a opulent red rose, black and white print …as in a Aubrey Beardsley illustration… as in cocoon shape “Quilted Geisha Coat.” BUT -The stunning evening gowns and cocktail dresses with glittering gold, hand embroidered/beaded hieroglyphics … really stole the show (we assume). Red carpet knockouts or for us mere mortals, investment pieces!!!! And we feel confident that never, ever, ever will we see cheaper knockoffs of these gloriously ornamented items. That’s why that even in this economy, one goes for the real deal. Temperley delivers a complete collection ,

A SHOWROOM VISIT West Chelsea, New York City March 24th, 2009 Words, Images Judith Ecochard Runway shows are a great way to see how a collection moves on female forms…but we always try to follow up an intriguing RTW outing with an intimate visit to a designer’s atelier. With Tia Cibani ’s ---and her upscale Ports 1961---the Bryant Park show was barely able to display the number of separates, dresses, coats and accessories that comprise Fall 2009 offerings. And there is a lot to admire, including an amazing color palette --- so refreshing versus all the neutral tone basics clogging so many Fall 2009 collections (and a reason to shop), glorious textiles , a wide range of internationally appropriate/accessible silhouettes, and polished tailoring . As usual, Cibani is inspired by some locale and a time period. In this collection, India under the Mughal Dynasty serve as the wellspring for bright colors -curry yellow, orange, shades of creamy beige, sky blues…and sumptuous lightweight textil