Raika D: Passionate and Sensual
By Mari Davis
Photos by: Javier Mateo
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DALLAS, Nov 22, 2003/ FW/ --- Last September in New York, designer Raika D promised a “Romantic Rendezvous” in Bryant Park for her Spring 2004 collection. It turned out more than that.
There were two debutantes that night. Current Miss Teen USA 2003, Tami Farrell (Photo at left - Tami Farrell in red gown)made here first ever runway appearance. The other debutante was Raika D. It’s the first time that the label was shown in Bryant Park.
There was definitely enough buzz about it. Designer John Bartlett was among the attendees. He was definitely interested with Raika D. And when asked when he was coming back to the fashion scene, he said with a smile, “Soon. But it will be just menswear for the time being. Right now, I just want to concentrate on the upcoming show.”
And he was right about that, because Raika D turned out to be a sensual and passionate collection with its dramatic red, black and silver creations.
Opening with a hooded patchwork cloak paired with fringed waist black pants, the collection was mysterious and alluring from the beginning.
It was then followed with delicate tulle fabrications, intricate lace appliqués, ethnic and geometric prints.
With black and white as the main color palette, drama was added with tomato red and tangerine orange.
Hues of ethereal pale gold and okra emanated romance. Splashes of silver metallic paint added intrigue to the sultry black ensembles.
Memorable pieces included the black dress embellished with metallic brush strokes worn by the reigning Miss Teen USA.
The tomato red ethnic print dress with scalloped hem adorned with lace and sequins is also worth a second look.
The make up created by Smashbox cosmetics was also dramatic. But it had one drawback. The make up was so strong that sometimes, it took away from the total look.
Other than that, the dual debut went very well. Miss Teen USA Tami Farrell drew applause from the crowd during her catwalk appearance. Husband and wife team, Luca and Raika was awarded by the audience a deafening applause when they took their bow at the end of the show.
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