Andrew Marc Presentation Spring/ Summer 2009 Andrew Marc Showroom September 9, 2008 Written by Jamie Sharpe Photographed by Sylvia Pericon

The Spring/ Summer 2009 Andrew Marc collection integrated cloth outerwear into a line that has become synonymous with high end leather. Exaggerated collars, cinched waists, draw cords, asymmetrical hidden snaps, and topstitching rounded out high style coats that merged form with function. There was a real focus on classic silhouettes with iridescent taffeta and A-line swing coats.

Of course, the real standout pieces were done in leather; more specifically, light weight and soft glove lamb. The workmanship was impressive, nothing was bulky. Motorcycle jackets and rocker-inspired outerwear embodied a nod to the Eighties, and the Betty coat was the perfect hybrid of a slightly rebellious chic look that still felt classic.

Handbags were also a major focus of this presentation, and we were impressed with the Traveler Group. Straw, coffee, chambray, and clover colors grounded the bags in neutral tones that would be a chic accent for any ensemble. The Maya and Mallory bags would work well as a day bag, but they are also roomy enough to use as a weekend bag.

Overall, the Andrew Marc collection was impressive, because it showed a strong attention to detail. Track stitching, runching, exposed hardware, and wrist zippers defined a fashion forward line that updated classic pieces with a slightly edgy and subversive sensibility.