Marc Bouwer: Old World Charm
By Shawn Wright
Photos by Javier Mateo

NEW YORK, Feb 12, 2005/ FW/ --- French jazz and the decadent ambience of Cipriani's captured the essence of Marc Bouwer's Harlem Renaissance inspired collection.

Rich chocolate gowns in satin and chiffon were warm enough to touch (surprisingly, so were the grey gowns). A full-shouldered brocade suit in butter cream created a powerful, statuesque silhouette without being too theatrical.

A beaded single-sleeve gown appeared awkward and out of sync with the rest of the refined collection but proved to be the only misstep. The opulent furs worked perfectly with the eveningwear and it will be great to see them paired with more casual looks.

This collection was designed with starlets and socialites in mind who possess a hint of old world charm without waxing nostalgic.

And for those who follow UPN’s “America’s Next Top Model,” the third season winner, Eva walked the runway for Marc Bouwer, making her the first ANTM winner to grace the New York catwalk right after winning the reality show.

Adrianne Curry, the first season winner was seen at the tents for the first time since winning in July 2003, while Yoanna House who had graced the Los Angeles catwalk for two seasons was nowhere to seen under the tents or off-site.

Marc Bouwer

Marc Bouwer

Marc Bouwer

Marc Bouwer