L.A. Fashion Week Spring '07: Collection Bebe
The follow-up to Collection Bebe’s Fall runway debut was worth the wait. The collection, headed by David Cardona, former designer for Cerutti, made its second runway appearance on Oct. 18 at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at Smashbox Studios in Culver City, Calif. The “Flights of Fancy”–themed show, styled by Paula Bradley, was reminiscent of the style and sophistication of Parisian culture.
Cardona juxtaposed edginess with sophistication, overt sexiness with elegance and innovative style with wearability. Fabrics such as a diaphanous silk gazaar on a black bubble trench and the heavy-weight taffeta on a sleek pant suit illustrated the line’s luxury focus. Cardona drew inspiration from Christian Dior’s iconic “New Look” silhouette—emphasizing volume in skirts and cinching in the waist with gold belts and corset detailing.
Shapes were angular and geometric, inspired by the architecture of Frank Gehry. The palette was modern in black and white with gilded accents in gold and silver. The designer referenced the 1980s with cropped leather jackets, bubble shapes, jumpsuits and asymmetrical styling. Parachute details such as D-rings, zipper hardware and bondage-like grosgrain ribbon added a modern edge to the chic look. Key pieces included a highly conceptual architectural-shaped dress in French organza, an elegant ebony trench coat with a billowing bustle-like train, and an ebony lace parachute jumpsuit with a peek-a-boo bra and panty. —N. Jayne Seward
