Call of Barry's Rock Siren
With rock stars as her clients, Maggie Barry’s design checklist needs to go beyond the typical concerns of fit and silhouette. The veteran Los Angeles–based fashion designer must also ask herself how a bright light would change the look of one of her designs. Another important consideration: Can performers dance in her fashions?
Barry’s niche in costume design inspired her most recent collection, “Rock Siren.” She debuted the styles in a 35-look runway show March 31 at the Ivar nightclub in Hollywood. It was attended by her musical clients Perry Farrell and Terri Nunn of Berlin, designers Yotam Solomon and Kelly Nishimoto, and EM & Co. boutique owner Evelyn Morel.
“Rock Siren” also marks a change of priorities for Barry. In the past, her designs focused on cleavage. This time, the spotlight was on legs.
Barry showed cashmere mini-dresses that were meant to flow with the body’s movement. Because these dresses ended a bit above the thigh, they showed a generous amount of leg. For the modest rocker, the dresses were shown with hot pants and leggings bearing intricate patterns.
Dresses often came equipped with “scollars,” or collars that doubled as scarves. Other looks featured ballerina-style tulle dresses. Some garments used stretch leather, which is easier to dance in than the armor-like leather worn on a motorcycle ride.
Rock icon David Bowie was the inspiration for the show’s purple mirrored suits. A mirror appliqueacute; also ended up on a white one-shoulder dress with fringes. Barry’s fashions are typically custom-made for her clients and sold at a handful of boutiques. Retail price points range from $40 for hot pants to $2,000 for a cashmere dress.
Barry said her background in theatrical design makes for a long-lasting garment. “They look delicate, but they are indestructible,” she said. shy;—Andrew Asch
