Mara Hoffman stays true to herself and her business when approaching a new collection. She s successfully mined a niche in the contemporary market by specializing in vibrant prints. Resort and swimwear are the designer s most lucrative seasons by far—she could make a best-selling bikini in her sleep at this point—so Fall is always somewhat of a comparative challenge. Hoffman rose to the occasion by ramping up cozy knits and outerwear items that were very on-brand. As it passed down the runway, a blanket wrap with a mystical intarsia "all-seeing eye" symbol seemed like the natural companion to the bright minidress shown underneath. Other statement-making looks here included a quilted bomber embroidered with a tribal Suzani pattern (native to Uzbekistan) and hooded robelike coats that would appeal to a gypset vagabond. Backstage before the show, a calm and confident Hoffman said, "It s not my job to be a leader in American sportswear, but rather to be a leader in light."
