Yigal Azrouel Makes the Slash Sexy
Yigal Azrouel certainly found the sexy in the slash. His spring women's collection, presented Friday at New York Fashion Week, was at its best when it flashed just a bit of skin in an unexpected place -- or gave the illusion of doing so.
He described the slits in jersey dresses as carved "with scalpel precision," all part of his fascination this season with geometry. There was a similar effect when he layered bands of black or taupe voile over a nude-colored base.
Two so-simple gowns oozed youthful sophistication, thanks to the flattering soft drape -- and nothing else.
Beware, though, of more bare midriffs. They're OK in cut-out maillots but you can't imagine a crop top under a gray jersey vest and linen wrapped shorts to be a go-to outfit for many women, not even Azrouel's hip-chick fans.
"The collection and silhouettes are more defined and structured. I played with the contrast of bands and outlines against skin," he explained in his notes offered to the editors, stylists and retailers at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at the Bryant Park tents.
Azrouel also previewed menswear. With an emphasis on asymmetrical cuts on cardigans and vests, and pieced-together pants, the collection seemed to be disconnected to the chic women's clothes.