March 21, 2002/ FW/ --- One thing you can say about Mark Kroeker, he is a hands on guy.

Backstage, he dressed the models and do styling himself, although there were dressers hired for the show.

He even had a sewing machine on stand by, just in case there are some last minute touches that needed to be done.

The son of missionary/teacher parents and living in far-away places, as a child, Mark Kroeker had to do a lot of things for himself.

Growing up in Oklahoma and Texas, where working with your hands is an accepted norm, reinforced the "hands-on" attitude.

So, it's not really surprising to see Mark working as hard or ever harder than his crew backstage before the show.

For Fall 2002, Mark Kroeker was inspired by Spanish and Mexican costumes.

His show notes says, "The sleek silhouette fo the Matador balances the raw romanticism of Mantilla lace prints and filmy layered underpinnings."

The references to Spain and Mexico were very subtle. The designer focused his atention to cut and detailing, creating a collection that was refined and sophisticated.

Celebrating his 9th season at 7th on Sixth, Mark Kroeker has built himself a reputation of being one of New York's most inventive designer.

Mark Kroeker Fall 2002

Mark Kroeker Fall 2002

Mark Kroeker Fall 2002

Mark Kroeker Fall 2002