L.A. Fashion Week Fall '08: Nicholai by Nicky Hilton
From slick patent-leather accents and square silver buckles to horse-whip accessories, Nicky Hilton described her Fall 2008 Nicholai by Nicky Hilton collection as “equestrian meets bondage.” Hilton, who “grew up riding horses,” said she was inspired by the Flying-M ranch in Nevada, owned by her grandfather William Barron Hilton.
Nicholai, a contemporary collection, exhibited a fiercer fashion side than Hilton’s younger, girlier line, Chick by Nicky Hilton. Equestrian-style blazers were given a jolt of edginess with patent-leather accents on the collar, pocket openings or waistband. On the less-subtle side was a sexy solid patent-leather fitted motorcycle jacket with exposed zipper detail. “I think [patent leather] makes such a statement. It’s so sophisticated and sexy at the same time,” said Hilton, who showed on March 11 at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at Smashbox Studios in Culver City, Calif. Nicky’s family—including her sister, Paris; her father, Rick; and her mother, Kathy, made a front-row appearance.
The “naughty and nice” theme continued with pleated schoolgirl skirts in leather and plaid fabrics. Delicate chiffon tie-front blouses were paired with tougher styles, such as a pair of black waxed skinny jeans or a lipstick-red leather trench coat. —Rhea Cortado
