Expectations were set high for the Fall 2010 Christian Siriano show when a press release sent just hours before the show trumpeted a coterie of bold face names that would sit in the front row. As promised, popping flashes surrounded Amber Rose, Kristen Johnson and Mena Suvari as they took their seats. American Idol Adam Lambert was expected to attend, but Heard on the Runway didn't spy him; perhaps we missed him in the opening chaos.
A few scenesters dressed up for the occasion: At least two women were not wearing pants, a trend seen on the runways last season. Despite the just above-freezing temperatures, a guest donned a black leotard paired with printed leggings and heels.
Siriano's show featured pulled-together ensembles with a dark edge. Wool pencil skirts were paired with swing coats and sparkling cats-eye sunglasses. As day looks gave way to night styles, the black and blue wools and tweeds bled into fuchsia and blue organza blouses with flouncy ruffles. Like last season, Sessilee Lopez closed the show in a dramatic tulle gown. And also like the last show, the crowd burst into appreciative applause before the show ended.
"He always makes me feel beautiful and voluptuous as a woman," actress Mena Suvari said after the show. "I think he does justice to a woman's body." Kristen Johnson echoed the sentiment: "It's art but it's wearable. He fits a woman's body so brilliantly."
The collection was about dressing up, Mr. Siriano said, adding that he's not a jeans-and-T-shirt designer. "I wanted every look to be impactful." Due to budget constraints, he can't show 60 looks the way other big names do, so he's forced to edit himself, he said. "So what you have has to be strong, cohesive and really, a moment of its own."
Leigh Lezark, wearing a black feathered Siriano dress, said the former "Project Runway" winner occupies a special place within the industry. "I really love that everyone cheers him on," she said. "Sometimes in this industry, people don't. But everyone is excited for him. Everyone wants to see him succeed."
Christian Siriano Fall 2010 from Elva Ramirez on Vimeo.
