While many designers presented fall collections at Lincoln Center during Fashion Week, there were other designers showing at various venues throughout the city, and even internationally. Byron Lars introduced his new fall 2013 line “Byron Lars Beauty Mark.” Carlos Meile, who usually shows in New York at Lincoln Center, presented his fall collection in his hometown of Brazil.
Lars presents a kaleidoscope of textures and colors to define his inspirational “Byron Lars Beauty Mark.” “I’m absolutely obsessed at the moment with textiles that pulsate with texture and energy,” declared Lars. “It’s an unusual, mixed media collection with pieces that are blended together. The designs are all about the fabric this season.”
In his collection, glen plaid suits bond with orange neoprene. His torched, laminated, sculptured lace looks are pretty. To mimic fur, his multiple print chiffons are shredded and ruffled with appliques. Supple faux leathers are elegantly cut.
Every piece in Lars’ show is meticulously constructed. His ultra feminine tops, skirts, jackets, dresses and an array of separates are seamless mixers. These easy-to-wear pieces create great, layered looks. Prices range from $195 to $700.
Lars was selected to represent the U.S. at international fashion events in Paris and Monte Carlo even before he launched his first collection in 1991. His designer line was consequently carried by major department stores. He earned critical and commercial raves. However, Lars felt that the prohibitive pricing of designer brands was a disservice to a significant segment of women, prompting him to create the more accessibly priced “Byron Lars Beauty Mark.” The brand’s success is a testament to the intimate scope of Lars’ design aesthetic, which consistently provides women with the finest fashions for modern lifestyles.
In Brazil, Carlos Meile’s fall-winter 2013 collection is infused with his signature usage of rich color. On the runway, he included scarlet, ultra blue, deep fuchsia and berry. Black and white linear prints are also used for a great effect. A master of the creative convergence of cut and design, Meile balances graphic patterns, stripes and geometric laces with curvaceous silhouettes and cuts that follow the natural form of the body. For daywear, Meile’s collection offers structured A-line skirts and chic trousers. For evening, his sleek gowns, luxurious furs, tweed coats and strong-shouldered jackets are red carpet fashion picks.