Lela Rose Mercedes Benz Fashion Week The Tents at Bryant Park February 4, 2007 mercedesbenzfashionweek.com Written by Bob Bland Photographed by Al McCotter

As the bells rang a few blocks away at St. Patrick’s Cathedral, a congregation of fashion’s faithful convened at Bryant Park on Sunday morning to see the Fall/Winter collection of Lela Rose. A Texas native and Parson’s graduate, Lela Rose designs collections that are perpetually young and pretty, earning her a celebrity client list that includes both the Bush and the Olsen twins, Mischa Barton and Selma Blair.

Her Fall/Winter 2007 presentation was love note to the Swinging ‘60’s, complete with contrasting pop colors, chintzy silks and high volume shapes paired with the occasional skinny capri. Her garishly colored abstract print and foil-embellished polka dot looks were unwearable, but some of her more subdued pieces were great for fall. Though herringbone was played-out seasons ago, Rose’s oversized cape with funnel neck and contrast buttons was the most grown-up look of the collection. A black banded lace dress with pleated neckline and empire waist would look great on any girl, and her short trousers were a hit in every color.

In the tradition of Abaete designer Laura Poretzsky, Lela Rose introduced her Fall 2007 footwear collection for Payless on the runway- she designed the collection to match her ready-to-wear. The five designs incorporated bright patents and smart tweeds in mixture of pumps and flats.

Key Colors: bright white, black, ochre, burgundy, midnight blue, multicolored abstract print
Key Fabrics: foil brocade, herringbone wool, tafetta, organdy lace
Key Looks: jumpers, shrunken trouser pants, blouses with voluminous sleeves, dresses belted at the natural waist

Lela Rose