The packed-in crowd at yesterday’s Max Azria show got its fill with a firmly cohesive line and very few weak points. The collection’s looks were ultra feminine in structure but with a hard edge; seemingly delicate (mostly black) pieces looked equally durable, lending the garments a kind of strong-willed attitude.
Not surprisingly for Max Azria, the highlights came in the details. After a few designers experimented with undergarment-overlays for Spring 2008, Max Azria attempted the style this season and carried it off beautifully. Studded leather corsets acting like oversized belts and strapless bras worn over blouses or dresses reinterpreted the foundational structure of a look; as did the tulle peeking out from underneath a hemline, or draped over top a form-fitting dress.
In typical fashion, Max Azria also incorporated some unusual elements for added uniqueness. Like the black hunting hats (complete with fabric panel down the back of the neck), which might ordinarily be a distasteful addition, but actually looked sexy-tough when paired with a more feminine piece.