Tracy Reese kicks off our spring–summer 2003 coverage from New York, as Ann Fryer begins her Cuban daydream

HERE ARE a few designers who create clothes that come to life and Tracy Reese is one with that amazing ability. Tracy Reese’s spring 2003 show was breathtaking. Her collection was inspired by her dream of pre-revolutionary Cuba. When Tracy Reese’s clothes were unveiled I could not stop my imagination from running wild. I could picture several of the pieces in my own dream …
   The day begins with a walk along a white powdery beach with a best friend. In casual beachwear, the two young ladies gossip about the previous evening’s events. Onlookers cannot help but admire the beauties in their lime green low rider bikinis, with one wearing a silk blouson and the other a three-quarter shirt. As the sun begins to beat down, the ladies decide to take refuge under a cluster of palm trees that softly flutter in the breeze. They admire the ocean views while eating tropical fruit and sipping on ice cold drinks.
   After a relaxing morning it is time to get ready for lunch at a grand villa in Havana. The ladies step out with a sun-kissed glow from the morning that is easily revealed in their sophisticated choice of blousons and flared skirts. The women beautifully complement each other, with one in bold black and white and the other in something soft and celery-coloured. The summer sandals and straw bags complete the look. The ladies arrive for lunch in style after a chauffeur-driven ride down the tree-lined avenues of Havana.

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After a relaxing morning it is time to get ready for lunch at a grand villa in Havana. The ladies step out with a sun-kissed glow from the morning that is easily revealed in their sophisticated choice of blousons and flared skirts.