NEW YORK, May 1, 2003/ FWD/ --- Afternoon tea with designer Alicia Bell isn't your standard cucumber finger sandwiches and Earl Grey, Brit-style affair; it's cupcakes and champagne all the way.

The sweet and sugary spread, laid out for her fall presentation in New York recently, was almost as darling as the collection itself.

Tailored, feminine and Victorian are the words most commonly used to describe Bell's young, fun aesthetic.

Her ability to combine fabrics and subtle prints in classic silhouettes is magical, and she relies on one thing to make sure it all comes together -- softness.

"I don't normally think of what I do in terms of contributing to the world of fashion -- I just do fashion design as an expression of what is in my heart. If I had to verbalize what my deepest intention is, it would be to create more softness in the world," she explained.

The 26-year-old Parsons grad and former Vivienne Westwood pattern-cutter has quietly yet steadily built up a sophisticated and stylish client base the last few years including Liv Tyler, Shiva Rose, Kirsty Hume, and pop singer Vanessa Carlton, who stopped by the presentation for a glass of bubbly and to pick out some pieces for her fall wardrobe.

For fall, Alicia took inspiration from a trip to India and utilized their colorful intricate beading techniques in her dresses and skirts. An Asian theme ran through the kimono-style tops prevalent in the collection, but the designs remained true to traditional Bell, with such additions as lace trimming and vintage buttons.

More classic pieces, like her popular heavy cotton stripe shirts, tweed pants and skirts, and a superb corduroy suit also bore the Bell tailored trademark.

For more info log on to www.aliciabell.com.

Bell by Alicia Bell

Bell by Alicia Bell