Braids, basket-weaves and glitz overload at Chakra

Edition by Georges Chakra got sculptural with long straps of stretch satin, weaving, braiding, draping, criss-crossing and wrapping them round in all sorts of ways, resulting in some inventive, textural takes on your standard glam gown. A turquoise number had woven shoulder straps, like a trellis; a basket-weave corset and unusual caged neckline perked up a purple charmeuse gown. But other necklines, laden with thick crystal trim, seemed stiff. One swirled into a spiral over one breast and looked . . . itchy. The crystal beads were flecked with color that was, perhaps, intended to sparkle like a prism but seemed more reminiscent of Pop-Tart frosting. Too sweet and not worth the calories.