NEW YORK, Feb 4, 2006/ FW/ --- Esteban Cortazar’s inspiration for this collection was the beautiful movement, vulnerability, and tenderness as captured in Edgar Degas’ ballerina paintings along with the dusty romantic color tones of the 17th century as mentioned in his press notes.

Opting for an installation instead of a catwalk show this season, Esteban Cortazar wanted a more intimate atmosphere wherein his guests can inspect the collection up close.

‘I wanted to interact with my guests and meet them. I want to known them personally,’ explained Cortazar.

And on this season’s inspiration, he said, ‘I have always been a fan of the works of Edgar Degas. The allure and femininity of the ballerinas in his paintings, and the soft flowing lines is akin to the vision of the Esteban Cortazar woman.

The 16 pieces shown was more than enough to quench the thirst of Esteban Cortazar fans. Flowing gowns and cocktail dresses emanate a delicate beauty, while the details such as tiny covered buttons at the back, beaded flowers and leaves showed the Miami-based designer’s artistic hand.

The silhouette is slim, with the shoulders emphasized and the bodice snug fitting. Mostly eveningwear, in hues of dusty rose, champagne, dusty blue, antique gold, and multi-colored pastels in luxe fabrics of silk zibeline, tulle, silk chiffon, and silk brocade, this capsule collection might be the precursor of the ‘grown up’ Cortazar we will see when he goes back to the tent.

“I’ll be back at the tents,” Cortazar told FW. “Just right now, I wanted a change of pace.”

And changed he did! Gone are the playful Latino-Miami looks. This time, he used slick long lines, elaborate details using fitted, body hugging silhouettes that flatter the female physique with his signature flowing skirts always giving that feminine soft feeling to the collection.

The collection illustrates the essence of the Cortazar woman --- feminine, sensual and loves to be a woman.

Esteban Cortazar

Esteban Cortazar

Esteban Cortazar

Esteban Cortazar