In recent seasons, Monique Lhuillier has focused on addressing the day-to-day needs of her customers, who remain loyal to the designer s red carpet-ready evening gowns but are also requesting smart separates and cocktail attire that still feels special. At a showroom preview, Lhuillier described her latest Pre-Fall lineup as "a bit more streamlined and urban." She demonstrated a flair for tailoring with a navy tuxedo cape, slimming boot-cut trousers, and a mannish topcoat that complemented a graphic shift featuring allover harlequin diamonds and a tough leather harness detail at the neckline. Lace is always a strong category for Lhuillier, and she showed it in a variety of charming ways here, notably on a delicate bomber jacket and a long, cutaway shirtdress that looked modern paired with pants. Elsewhere, she took the doily stuff in a more familiar, feminine direction with long-sleeve sheaths and A-line frocks that collaged together pieces of appliquéd lace in a rainbow of pretty jewel tones. In addition to those after-hours standouts, Lhuillier s fans will also go for her new collection of shoes, which included—for the first time—several pairs of elegant flats. "More than ever, women are conscious of being comfortable," she said.
