After the lights were turned down, the audience was transported to India during the beginning of Runa Ray’s show. In the darkness, there were outstanding voices of India singing in harmony that echoed throughout the NYFW tent. The show opened with a two-piece ensemble, a beige jacket belted over white, wide-legged pants. Ray’s clothes signaled an easy way to dress for spring/summer 2017. Her sportswear separates were loose-fitting, silky soft and sophisticated. Other pieces exhibited styling such as low-cut necklines and day-into-evening dresses with thigh high splits. Her looks are often bare, depending on the cut. This season, the fashion focus is on the waistline. The coat dress is back with delicate details.
Runa Ray went to school in Bangalore and also studied at the National Institute of Fashion Technology (India), where she received the Best Design Award for her final collection. From there, she moved to Paris to pursue her master’s degree in garment engineering under the Paris Chamber of Commerce at the Ecole Superieure des Industries du Vetements. It was during this stint that she had the opportunity to work with notable designers such as John Galliano and the House of Dior. These designers taught her the fine art of haute couture. However, she decided to meld her knowledge with ready-to-wear.
Erin Fetherston’s collection flowed down the runway. The look was ethereal, feminine and modern. Separates are tailored, yet her gowns were whispery soft in chiffon and silk. Fetherston, born and raised in the San Francisco Bay area, is a graduate of UC Berkeley and studied design at Parsons School of Design in Paris. This collection for New York Fashion Week was typical of her signature styles. On the runway, her fashions were whimsical and romantic.
Numan Ataker, a native of Turkey, is the designer of the John Paul Ataker collection. His NYFW collection was inspired by his family, who work in all aspects of fashion, including tailoring, fabric development and pattern-making for notable clients. He honed his skills at a young age while working in the family business. Ataker is known for his one-of-a-kind silhouettes. His cuts are precise, yet his draping enhances the female figure. Today, the John Paul Ataker collection is made up of curated styles with design integrity. Ataker focuses on fit, intricate details and hand-sewn craftsmanship. Good shows. Happy holidays!