Pamella Roland is known for her fluid, feminine gowns that are a hit with the red-carpet set, but the winds of change were blowing for Spring, and Roland showed a monochromatic collection featuring stricter silhouettes and more separates, in keeping with the designer s personal style. Wearing a sharp tuxedo suit at the presentation similar to look 3, Roland said she s always been more of a pants girl, "but we became known for our dresses, so I just went with it." A peplum tank with sheer side insets was shown with a slim pencil skirt, while simple shifts with graphic "maco" beading were inspired by Ellsworth Kelly s streamlined black and white paintings (Roland is an art buff and is on the board of trustees at the Whitney Museum). These linear pieces were a nice change of pace for Roland, but overall, eveningwear was still the clear victor here. We predict one of Roland s starlet clients will scoop up the standout look, a dramatic, caftan-inspired number with a beaded halter neckline and cutout shoulders, for an upcoming awards show or film festival appearance.
