Cynthia Steffe's Western view
A general view of clothing on mannequins at the Cynthia Steffe Spring 2012 presentation during Mercedes Benz Fashion Week. (Sept. 12, 2011) Credit: Getty Images
Cynthia Steffe’s presentation outside on a penthouse terrace of the Mondrian SoHo hotel Monday evening had an airy, open feeling — and not just because of the amazing sunset views. The collection has a decidedly tribal or Native American vibe, from the suede fringe jackets (worn with a long silk dress) to the Indian beaded waistline of a chiffon fringe dress.
Strips of leather form a dramatic graphic chevron pattern, perking up a little black dress. And a cozy ochre crochet dress is topped by a coated nylon anorak. “Dances With Wolves” meets “Sex and the City.” Call it “Dresses With Wolves.”
The indigenous Western motif may not work for everyone, in which case there are alternatives (simple, washed-silk dresses and tropical florals). But at least it’s nice to see a choice being offered.
