Edward Steichen s iconic photograph of 1920 s silent film star Gloria Swanson was Rachel Roy s inspiration for pre-fall. The famous portrait shows the actress gazing into the camera through a veil of webbed lace. Roy used that lace as a jumping-off point, then added in what she called "hints of Eastern exoticism."
Dense beading and sequins covered slipdresses and bodysuits, and three kinds of iridescent rooster feathers coated a sizable leather cape (intrepid partygoers only need apply). Moments of drama aside, there were many wearable looks. Trenchcoats and harem pants in a variety of prints have become the designer s hallmarks. And Roy is still feeling the leopard moment. The pattern showed up in muted tones, most notably on a belted cargo dress in hammered silk. Ultimately, the Rachel Roy customer wants to emulate the designer s bold personal style, so she also showed pieces that looked plucked from her own wardrobe. Frayed tweed suits and secretary blouses in cayenne and lime will take the girl with a busy schedule like Roy s from work to social events.
