Tadashi Shoji's feather forecast
This Thursday, Feb. 10, 2011 photo courtesy of Tadashi Shoji shows the Tadashi Shoji Fall 2011 collection modeled during Fashion Week in New York. (AP Photo/Tadashi Shoji) NO SALES; EDITORIAL USE ONLY Credit: AP Photo/
The clean lines, artful folds and draping that Tadashi Shoji does so well were enhanced by wisps of feathers, which he used in measured, delicate ways. Like in his gray, tiered, one-shoulder dress, where feathers peeked out from under diagonal layers of chiffon. On other dresses (many just above the knee), he achieved the same effects with delicate, hand-cut organza or fluttery bits that dangled and danced off shoulders as models strode down the runway.
In contrast to such softness, the color palette was rich, saturated — and intriguingly named. There was a beautiful, diagonally draped silk crepe dress in "eclipse" (teal to you and me); more silk crepe in graphite (a sort-of taupe); and a gazar strapless gown with hand-cut organza flowers blossoming in "horizon" (which is — go figure — a big, bright purple).
A shout-out is due to Florida sisters Danielle and Jodie Snyder of DanniJo (a jewelry line we told you about in 2008) — Shoji accessorized his delicate dresses with their eclectic, thick-chained necklaces. A perfect match.
As was Shoji in his verrrrry unusual coat — he took his bow wearing a massive jacket that looked like . . . molded rubber. He wore it well.