Carmen Marc Valvo: Where Glamour Prevails
By Mari Davis
Photos by Javier Mateo

NEW YORK, Feb 12, 2004/ FW/ --- Glam is back at the tents and one of its biggest progenitors this season is Carmen Marc Valvo.

Inspired by the power and sensuality of old Hollywood, the New York-based designer brought on the runway magic and allure of the legendary screen goddesses from Dietrich to Garbo, Hayworth to Hepburn.

First, it was the silhouettes, soft, playful and feminine. Carmen Marc Valvo’s interpretation of a glamour-puss, the classic lines translated into today’s looks became longer and leaner.

“Right now, women want more versatility in evening wear, and this silhouette feels very modern,” the designer quoted on the press notes.

Bias cut satin gowns and crepe cocktail dresses were paired with mink, fox, and sable stoles, mufflers and wraps. A girl cannot ask for more!

This collection also shows Carmen Marc Valvo’s impressive couture detailing shown in the beautiful embroidery and hand leather cut coats.

Interesting to note this season is the designer’s work on weaving, sending woven ribbons used as textural detail on the runway. It makes you feel that you are watching a couture show at the Palais Brongniart in Paris instead being under the tents at Bryant Park.

If in the near future I see Carmen Marc Valvo’s name on the official calendar of the Chambre Syndicale de la Couture Parisienne for the haute couture season, I will not be surprised at all.

The gowns are more than lovely, but I have to add that the designer outdid himself with the sportswear looks in this 44-piece collection.

With a nod towards men’s tailoring, Carmen Marc Valvo’s muted tweeds and plaids printed onto delicate chiffon are some of the strongest looks I’ve seen this season.

Another thing to note are the Carmen Marc Valvo shoe collection, which debuted on the runway today. Made in Italy using the finest leather, silk, satin, snakeskin and lace, they are the perfect accessories for this outstanding collection.

Carmen Marc Valvo

Carmen Marc Valvo

Carmen Marc Valvo

Carmen Marc Valvo

Carmen Marc Valvo