Although New York Fashion Week is all about the clothes, a runway show is also about creating an atmosphere and putting on a performance -- and Nanette Lepore did just that. Even though we've been to countless presentations and seen dozens of collections this week, Lepore's show stood out with its high energy and spectacular clothes.
As we entered the venue at Lincoln Center, the runway was covered in plastic wrap and the stage was backlit with blue lighting. Each seat bore a number, a program with the run-of-show and an Obama pin. As everyone took their seats the photographers were busy snapping the front row heavy-hitters like Abigail Breslin, Jennifer Westfeldt, Stanley Tucci, Mickey Boardman and Edie Falco. Bill Cunningham was hovering discreetly in his famous blue jacket, taking pictures of the beautiful attendees. Forty minutes after the official start time the show began with all eight rows (plus the standing room at the back) completely packed.
It kicked off with the band The Brazilian Girls, known for their electronic dance music, playing at the head of the stage. Live music made all the difference. In fact, we barely noticed the first look come out, as we were watching Sabina Sciubba, the lead singer, in her amazing green pleated pants.
As each look went down the catwalk, it became clear how cohesive the collection was. Lepore opted for a distinct color palette: greens and blacks towards the beginning, while blues and pinks finished off the show. She didn't stray too far from what she has become known (and loved) for: bold colors, evocative prints and feminine tailoring. This season she worked in lots of gingham, neons and tropical prints. One of our favorite looks came in the middle of the show: a long black dress with sheer panelling and lace details. Other highlights included printed short shorts, silk tri-color dresses and colorful boxy jackets. The models all wore chunky green and white sandals, with bouncy ponytails and delicate makeup -- all of which echoed the themes in the collection perfectly.
The show ended with the finale walk, and of course, the designer taking her victory lap on the runway. Unlike most designers who poke out of a wing and quickly disapear, Nanette came out dancing to the music, grabbed her daughter's hand and strutted down the runway. And that's how you end a show.
Click through the slideshow to see who sat front-row and for a peak at the Spring/Summer 2013 collection.
