Monique Lhuillier catwalk show report for NYFW S/S 2016

Monique Lhuillier’s spring/summer 2016 show took place in the vast venue of The Arc at Skylight at Moynihan Station on Saturday evening. Her collection was inspired by the artwork of Ellsworth Kelly, an American painter, sculptor, and printmaker known for his use of striking colors and bold shapes. Monique brilliantly maintained a balance of quirkiness and elegance through her use of abstract patterns and structured silhouettes, ultimately portraying a playful theme. 

Many elements of the show reflected Kelly’s artistic style. For example, the set consisted of several large, white two-dimensional triangles, rectangles, and circles suspended from the ceiling. They slowly rotated throughout the show, providing a glimpse of magenta and red painted backs. In addition, A-line and modern tunic silhouettes appeared in extravagant colors like lipstick pink, fuchsia, strawberry red, cobalt, geranium, and spring green. Their extravagant peplums added a modern feel, and aligned with the whimsical yet sophisticated ambiance. 

Hollywood celebrities were scattered throughout the front row, including Cara Santana, Mary Alice Stephenson, Ashley Madekwe, Jamie Chung, Bella Thorne, Analeigh Tipton and Gillian Jacobs. They were all fully intrigued by the swirling kaleidoscope of fashion unfolding before them. 

The music had a hard hitting base that sent vibrations throughout the seats while models conquered the runway in slicked buns by Recine for Moroccanoil. Structured tea-length dresses, silk pleated skirts, cigarette pants and open-back shift dresses hung perfectly on the lively figures. Lace cropped tops and dresses were layered over open-back shirts and fringe collars were added to silk shift shapes which gave a modern twist to traditional styles. 

Going along with the unconventional pairings motif, trumpet skirts and gowns were scribbled with Monique’s signature and feminine separates were given a touch of pizazz with unexpected fabric pairings. Fun, playful accessories further enhanced the joyful feeling of the couture. Vibrant colors like spring green, azure, and metallic were adorned to sandals, wedges, and flats. Abstract floral patterns and bright color blocking on handbags offered imaginative additions to the looks.  

Kathleen O’Neill
Photos: Barbara Di Maio