Lela Rose said her new Resort collection was inspired by Man Ray s works during the Dada period, but at first glance, there was nothing particularly surreal about these straightforward, pretty cocktail frocks. Slim-fitting sheaths came in a color-blocked palette of blood orange, taupe, and mint derived from what the designer described as the artist s "lesser-known paintings," as opposed to his famous avant-garde photography. Subtle details like cloth-covered embellished jewels and unexpected cutouts at the shoulders added new interest to Rose s somewhat predictable, "event-driven" fare. No one s going to argue with a classic cobalt blue gown, but we d like to see Rose experiment more with looks like the "eyelash" jacquard trousers set, which was a definite standout.
