THERE was an evident buzz surrounding Jenny Packham’s show this morning at Lincoln Center – impressive at a 9am slot, with word on the circuit revolving around the British-born designer’s sky-rocketing profile – thanks to one very high-profile, and influential fan, none other than the Duchess of Cambridge. Twice this year already she has donned Packham looks – a gold-hued gown at her first post-wedding outing, and a silk day dress at Calgary airport.
SEE THE DUCHESS OF CAMBRIDGE'S STYLE
For spring/summer 2012, Packham’s vision balanced the surprisingly youthful edge of last season’s wares with the decadent evening numbers for which she is renowned. Inspired by the Rolling Stone’s song “She’s a Rainbow”, there was an array of sunset hues set off by a subtle dash of aqua, two strong trend colours this season, in a finely crafted collection of ultra-feminine dresses. Actress Mandy Moore sat front row – and if it was red carpet fare she was hoping to see, she was in luck. The opening looks on the runway saw a stunning, diffused pastel-hued silk chiffon gown with Chantilly lace trim, and pristine white French beaded lace dress with ribbon belt – both looks set to top any best dressed list.
A floor-sweeping white lace dress with a cascade of colourful beaded flowers followed, soon moving onto a muted blue series of looks, endearing themselves to the audience with a naïve charm. As promised by the Rolling Stones soundtrack, the collection moved on through the rainbow spectrum, starting out with sunset orange and striking flame reds, the highlight a silk chiffon gown with hand-pleated full skirt and satin bustier.
For the finale, Packham looked to old Hollywood glamour with a sumptuous flapper-style gown with individually placed Swarovski stones and sequined lining – a show-stopping look fit for red carpet royalty.
SEE THE JENNY PACKHAM SHOW ARCHIVE