If Max and Lubov Azria had to make one thing for the rest of their lives, I would hope they’d opt for dresses. Even when they take a slight departure from glamour and head towards Sporty Town as they have for Spring/Summer 2012. The move from minimalism is finally here. As wearable as their designs were last season, the duo have done a great job pulling in the athletic chic; sheer panels, then hoodies, chiffon pleats, then drop-waists and low slung pockets. The balance was flirty and extremely contemporary with angled panels, spliced fabrics, and a casual feel that represented a loosening of the industry’s belts.
Transitioning from bra-like straps towards the end of the show, accessories such as wooden, bronze-embroidered platform print sandals and edgy envelope clutches seemed to resonate with the style sense of megafan (and front-row guest) Sophia Bush. There were definite hints of a tribal theme that I predict will be the major trend of Spring/Summer 2011.
