NEW YORK, Sep 12, 2005 / FW/ --- This afternoon at Bryant Park, Paris and Los Angeles based designer Lloyd Klein paid homage to his long time mentor Madame Grés.

“Lloyd had always wanted to paid homage to Madame Grés,” said John Arguelles, Marketing Director for Lloyd Klein, U.S.

“He kept on putting it off. But after the accident, he realized that he cannot put it off any longer, and the Spring 2005 season is as best as anytime,” continued Arguelles.

And what a homage it was! In a setting reminiscent of the old world salons where friends entertain friends, a ballerina entertained a whole slew of celebrities and socialites that included Vivica Fox and Ivana Trump, before the catwalk show started.

Several beautiful Adonis dressed in Greek costumes sat on pedestals at the center of the U-shaped runway.

As you have guessed, it’s all about draping, the technique that Madame Grés is famous for and Lloyd Klein mastered under her tutelage. Flowing gowns that are ruche, sheered or pleated paraded on the runway.

Lloyd Klein’s magic on the cutting table was also shown when he created those tiny bikinis and haltered tops and you cannot see where the seams are! Where did the cape end and the bikini top begin?

And just to make it interesting, he interposed denim among the gowns and frocks. Pleated minis paired with slashed jackets or blouses with inverted seams gave it a raw edge. Lloyd Klein can do deconstruction if he chooses to. Surprise! Surprise!

For a designer to show deconstructed and raw pieces when he better known for his gowns and very elegant creations is a real revelation to his fans.

No matter how delectable those pieces are, the real star of the show is Madame Grés. And if she could only see her student now, she would be proud. Applause greeted Lloyd Klein when he came out to take his bow.

Lloyd Klein

Lloyd Klein

Lloyd Klein

Lloyd Klein