Known for his elegant ball gowns and breath-taking presentations (we’re still swooning over last year’s dreamy collection), 35-year-old Los Angeles born designer Michael Costello has surely left his mark on the New York Fashion Week runways. On Friday, September 7th, he reminded us of why he is here to stay.
The atmosphere was warm as friends were reunited with big smiles, hugs and kisses. Everyone was talking about what one of the most prominent celebrity fashion designers in the world was going to give us next. People waited patiently to snap a photo of the blood red Michael Costello sign before taking their seats. Gifts bags lined the front row with Anastasia Beverly Hills eyeshadow palettes and treats. Quickly, the lights turned off with red lights lining both sides of the room.
A dark red light peered over the first model’s head as she merged from backstage in a piece speckled black dress with a bikini line cut slit revealing her left leg. Two small goddess braids with colorful beads ran through her hair as her loose wavy curls fell down on to her shoulders. The large silver earrings similar to dream catchers, bounced with every step she took.
Bright coral voluminous tulle tiers gently bounced on one model, while blue, purple and red zebra stripes covered the ruffles of another look.
Named “GITANA”, the SS19 collection was inspired by and pays tribute to the gypsy woman. As more of the models graced the runway Costello’s version to celebrate women who walk their own path of self-discovery began to become more clear. Costello drew inspiration from the grace of the independent gypsy woman who desires to break free from the rules she’s forced to follow, which causes her eventual rebellion. Costello wanted the collection to “embrace the resulting diversity and beauty” while inspiring “women to look and feel confident while maintaining their bohemian independence.”
The collection made me envision of a summer of cocktails, sunsets and parties by the water where the you wear your highest heels and your favorite red lip. Dresses that can make you feel elegantly like the life of the party and the best dressed of the night.
Gitana is a strong sexy collection that embodied the Roma culture. The dresses flowed gracefully with the models whilst still hugging their waists and thighs. As Costello revealed Gitana, the excitement could not be contained. Guests cheered on the models, as they waved to the attendees while they exited backstage. People arose out of their seats to snap a quick photo of the sequence of dresses, and the male models in the gold bikinis.
As the show ended, Costello excitedly came down the runway waving as smiling before skipping on his way backstage. As you’re seeking pieces for summer travel next year, I strongly looking to the Gitana collection for a confident sexy feel and rebellious inspiration.
Written by Sanglui Azang-Njaah