Stephen Ciuccoli/Lucire

Top Hervé Léger by Max Azria, fall–winter 2012–13. Above Mara Hoffman.

Hervé Léger by Max Azria—one of our favourites at each New York Fashion Week—showed an equestrian-themed collection for fall 2012. But to our eyes, Azria’s bandage dresses, harnesses and gladiator boots actually reminded us of warriors, ready to face a tough urban battle.
   Tibi’s stylish staples were a great contrast. Designer Amy Smilovic actually stayed away from the bright colours that her label has become known for, keeping within blacks and whites, and muted shades such as grey, burgundy and brown. Loose-fitting, semi-masculine jackets and coats complemented woollen jackets and skirts.
   Mara Hoffman’s theme was distinctively cowboy—not quite US western but venturing south of the border with tribal motifs and knits. She called it ‘shaman gauchos’, and while the styling gave her collection plenty of mystique, we could see ultra-wearable staples within that would make this autumn–winter season particularly comfortable.
   Our man Stephen Ciuccoli also shot behind the scenes at Venexiana, where we had an inside scoop with our NY beauty editor Reiva Cruze, who knows designer Kati Stern and worked make-up on this show. Sumptuous fabrics were the order of the day here, with velvet, satin and fur. Houndstooth patterns are back, to boot.

Hervé Léger by Max Azria

Stephen Ciuccoli/Lucire

Tibi

Stephen Ciuccoli/Lucire

Mara Hoffman

Stephen Ciuccoli/Lucire

Venexiana

Stephen Ciuccoli/Lucire