Thursday, August 27, 2009

The Genius of Norma Kamali

Every time I look at Norma Kamali's collection, I have just one question:  WHY haven't I seen this before?  Kamali's work is adventurous, unique, wearable, and often has a couture-like quality, with fascinating details you won't find in many other ready-to-wear pieces.  Her swimsuits make the pages of Vogue more often than her other work.  And I say:  that's a shame! 

Two gowns from her parachute line:  the hemline can be altered by adjusting the pulls at the bottom.


No one else at happy hour will be wearing this. Beautiful draping - look at the hem.

It's all in the details.  Here's an Oscar-worthy mesh gown:

The same fabric figured into a STUNNING swimsuit. Kamali takes the swimsuit to a new level; many of her collections feature swimwear worked in the same style as other pieces, as if a swimsuit was another skirt, dress, pant... it's a refreshing perspective, and the results are gorgeous. 

Here's another swim look, this one paired with a jacket from Kamali's parachute line (same as the white gowns above). 

Back of the jacket. Beautiful details.

A skirt covered in studs.  It's biker chic you could wear to the office or cocktail hour.

A feather dress:  the stuff dreams are made of.

Silk that flows like liquid:  timeless.

The classic LBD with a twist:  the trim?  Safety pins. I REALLY want this dress!  It can do office, parties... such an amazing piece.

Kamali also has an inventive (and under $20!) line for Walmart, which I've written about before.  Check her out!

All images, Norma Kamali.

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