I have been evading this blogpost like a bullet.
I had been to Noor's store before, and was so taken by the fine silks and exciting bright embellishments on her garments. There was a definite influence of her Pakistani background in the clothing, with rich colouring and seductive sheers. When I was invited to attend the showing this past Monday, I was thrilled to see what new magic she has been cooking up.
The runway set up was quite charming, as they transformed (what I find to be ) a shabby Ballroom into an appropriate space for fashion. I loved how there were crystal chandeliers hanging sporadically from a rustic and tattered ceiling. The contrast of glam and worn-out had me expecting to see a collection reflective of that aesthetic. Well, I was right about that.
Sadly, I was sorely disappointed by the collection. I hate to say this, because just last night I met Noor at another event, and she was so nice. I know that this designer has a rich cultural influence, and a huge following of sophisticated women. I thought I knew what her message and aesthetic was, but that collection totally threw me off. It did not look expensive nor modern. It did not relate a clear sense about who her client is. It looked amateur- but Noor is no amateur! I still remain confused.
There was a strong sense of Esmeralda the gypsy, and some strangely placed strips of black leather and silver zippers. There was also some bedazzled bras and body belts. :S I cannot imagine the woman who would wear these things, and neither to where. On a positive note, when the silhouette was kept simple and clean, I feel that it was strongest. Sometimes you really have to draw a line between creativity and sellability. I feel that was the principal weakness here. I hope that for the store, that most of what was shown would be edited and adjusted. The fabrics were lovely for the most part, but I feel they could be put together in a different way so as to appeal to her clientele.
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| Even Styled differently I can't see this on anyone |
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| I have no idea where this poorly tailored jacket came in |
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| Those zippers.. The horror! |
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This column dress was repeated in various patterns.
It was probably the truest design to what I feel Noor is-
Classy, colorful and Ethnic inspired. |
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| The Simpler Silhouettes were more successful |
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Sadly, I was sorely disappointed by the collection. I hate to say this, because just last night I met Noor at another event, and she was so nice. I know that this designer has a rich cultural influence, and a huge following of sophisticated women. I thought I knew what her message and aesthetic was, but that collection totally threw me off. It did not look expensive nor modern. It did not relate a clear sense about who her client is. It looked amateur- but Noor is no amateur! I still remain confused.
There was a strong sense of Esmeralda the gypsy, and some strangely placed strips of black leather and silver zippers. There was also some bedazzled bras and body belts. :S I cannot imagine the woman who would wear these things, and neither to where. On a positive note, when the silhouette was kept simple and clean, I feel that it was strongest. Sometimes you really have to draw a line between creativity and sellability. I feel that was the principal weakness here. I hope that for the store, that most of what was shown would be edited and adjusted. The fabrics were lovely for the most part, but I feel they could be put together in a different way so as to appeal to her clientele.
