LONDON, Sep 21, 2006/ FW/ --- Nicole Farhi is a smart woman. This is not only made evident by her own appearance but also by the focus of her line. The Algerian French born designer’s vision of comfortable, understated clothes have spanned over three decades but remain relevant in today’s whirlwind of fast fashion.

This season’s collection continued on Farhi’s chosen path of creating smart yet luxurious clothes for the workingwoman. With hair glossed and clipped straight to the back, the first model entered in a white jacquard smock dress. The navy and ecru plaid hinted at on the invitation finally manifested on a frock layered over a black linen vest (read tank top).

Polka dots (in both white on black and grey on white) worked well in their various sizes throughout the collection, never competing with the aforementioned plaid design. In fact, Farhi is one of the few London-based designers able to use plaids and polka dots in the same show without reeking of an attempt to convey to-cool-for school irony.

Touches of menswear included slim-shouldered poplin shirts in white and grey. The peacoat, another menswear inspired item, is making its resurgence on London’s runways and Farhi’s is by far one of the seasons best constructed

Evening looks included asymmetrical hemmed dresses in guipure lace – black with an asymmetrical hem and one pocket, tiered in white.

Farhi’s design aesthetic works well for a refined shopper, making it possible to wear one of her looks head to toe without appearing too styled or garish. It is this philosophy of chic simplicity that has given Farhi a credible reputation in the industry as a multi-faceted designer, restaurateur and all around entrepreneur. Yes, a smart woman indeed.

Nicole Farhi

Nicole Farhi

Nicole Farhi