We weren’t familiar with the work of Puerto Rican designer Luis Antonio until we saw images from his spring/summer 2014 “Rockoco” collection. We were floored by his grandiose dresses, his use of lace, bright colors, and the overall Spanish-inspired dream. We wanted to experience Luis Antonio in-person, and, more importantly, we wondered where this year’s spring/summer collection would go, so we checked out his debut at the tents.
Antonio said that he understands his clients’ “special connection” to his work, especially with the way he uses lace, silk gazar, and embroidered chiffon. So naturally we assumed his debut collection at New York Fashion Week would embody these elements. That was not the case with this “Maritime” line. But we were still whisked away to another world: this time, the French Riviera. Or so it was in our mind.
Luis Antonio spring/summer 2015
The first part of the show, Antonio delivered high luxe, architectural prints on lavish gowns, made exactly for what one would wear to the Cannes Film Festival. Even the color scheme was blue, white, and red. The lines on these gorgeous gowns were as intricate as the Eiffel Tower.
The second part was, indeed, more nautical, with cocktail dresses covered in a faded rope print. We especially adored the jumpsuits, and the ruffled side bows. The material of the looks were very tailored and prim, which made it seem as if the models were walking paper dolls. Perhaps these sorts of opulent dresses might be out of reach for the everyday woman, but the essence of them should be what we aspire to become.
Luis Antonio spring/summer 2015
