Get chic this upcoming season with the designer Cristina Ottaviano's new collection.
I met the young designer Cristina Ottaviano in her showroom in Downtown Manhattan. Her loft studio had a palpably dynamic working vibe. Sketches everywhere, dress mock ups on mannequin stands, people moving about in a hubbub of creativity and everything is bathed in this great light coming in through the huge windows. I met the entire impressive team and Cristina herself showed me how the magic happens. The petite designer, who can be easily mistaken for a model herself, has an ambitious vision which she interprets as a passionate modern femininity which when coupled with her disciplined work direction and old school craftsmanship, attention to details and maturity, is bound to become an unbridled success in the fashion industry. The inspiration for this collection was a painting of Ophelia by Sir John Everett Millais. The delicate, elaborate hand embroidery of superb quality, lace, as well as fine draping and romantic silhouettes are used extensively in Cristina's creations. Her debut collection has it all -- silk, wool, chiffon, tulle, leather and even fur. It is timeless, graceful, decadent sophistication in high style which is equally suitable for a night at the opera, that chic new restaurant downtown or an elegant dinner party at home.
For this shoot, my dear friend Rita opened her gorgeous house and agreed to be a model for some of the looks.
Here is a glimpse of the fall/winter 2014 season represented by four key looks.
Glamorous and feminine
This stunning body-hugging gown in soft shade of gray has a build in corset and an intricately embroidered neckline that resembles a delicate spider web. (How deliciously fitting!)
The neckline is the attention-grabbing element so skip the excessive jewelry and let the dress speak for itself.
The impeccable form-fitting tailoring of the dress ensconces the waist accentuating the feminine shape. The gorgeous gown will get you noticed, opt for this number when you really want to make an impression while entertaining for that special occasion at home.
Demure sophistication
My dress was a long-sleeve A-line which is dressy enough to host a Christmas or even a New Year's Eve soirée.
The eye-catching, lacy Oxford collar with a skilfully embroidered black beading is the epitome of elegance and sophistication with a subtle touch of decadence. Don't be confused by the demure design of the dress, its sensual tailoring and see-through upper part leave just enough for imagination. The tulle overlays zigzag lace pattern with hand-appliquéd beading work on each line which makes this dress an instant classic.
Wear your hair pulled back in a sleek pony tail or bun to really showcase the neck and details of the collar. Make a statement with a scene-stealing oversized, bold-colored pendant earrings. I wore emerald green clips from Dolce & Gabbana's collection.
Simple two-toned suede heels from shoe designer Max Kibardin were a perfect match.
Alluring duet
Create an alluring duet with this black chiffon and lace bow-tie blouse and a trim pencil skirt. There is just something so classic about this look. The skirt has a rich floral, white beading work on tulle which makes it very dressy.
I loved Rita's choice of earrings for this look. These fierce set by JCrew with the color combination of deep blue and turquoise brought the whole look together.
Timeless elegance
If I'd be asked to describe my style, this dress would be the embodiment of its essence! I love everything about it -- the flat, solid fabric, the sculptured shoulders and figure-skimming silhouette, this dress is so flattering and classy that it tops my wish list for cold months entertaining at home!
The built-in corset, something the designer Cristina Ottaviano perfected in this collection, is sexy and offers comfortable support without overly constricting the movement.
The crisscross draping with a small triangle cutout at the bust and artfully shaped voluptuous sleeves is something the designer so good at.
The draping further rounds off on the back to reveal the open back cutout.
Don't over accessorized, choose one bold piece like this Lucite earrings by NYC based jewelry designer Alexis Bittar. They added an interesting addition to the otherwise monochromatic look.
The pointy nude Christian Louboutin heels provide the needed length for the mid-calf dress length.
My friend's adorable cat Baron was enjoying the glorious, sunny weather bathing in a sunshine through the prism of the window. The only thing missing for this guy was the bow tie to completely fit into an entertaining in style credentials.
Sizzle up your style this upcoming season with the new, talented designer Cristina Ottaviano. Which look is your favorite?
Photographed by AnyaFoto.