New York Fashion Week: b Michael debuts a medley of looks that collectively charms

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Frills, feathers, lace and leather draped statuesque models during the debut of the Fall 2014 collection of designer b Michael Wednesday night during New York Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week.

The latest from the b Michael AMERICA collection included a stylish smorgasbord of couture designs fit for both men and women interested in timeless, modern chic.

After debuting his menswear line last season along with his women’s, b Michael continued his impressive delivery of eye-catching ensembles for both his men’s and women’s lines for fall in one show.

The looks for both showcased a range of colors, textures and fabrics ranging from the structured to the sensual.

Medley of everything for a perfect mix

“This collection was really my point of view as an American designer so you could see that there was a medley of colors. They didn’t really belong to one palette,” b Michael told theGrio after the show. “The textures and fabrics are from all over the world.”

From urban chic suits to jaw-dropping evening wear, the various designs presented Wednesday night created a harmonious feeling that highlighted the broad creative vision of the mastermind.

“The collaboration of the various sources of inspiration made from world class fabrics in my New York City Garment Center studio represents what is,” an aesthetic b Michael called, “quintessential American.”

The collection included both tailored pieces with sharp lines and raised seams, along with flowing, picturesque gowns draped in feathers and accented with fur. 

Dramatic and delightful designs for women

As accessories, models wore intricate headpieces and masks that added to the allure of the presentation.

“I think it was gorgeous and one of the best collections that I saw,” actress Condola Rashad told theGrio following the show. “I loved the drama of it. I think it’s beautiful that he goes back to glamour, and that there were such great pieces.”

For women, some examples included a show-stopping strapless red gown with a ball gown skirt so full, its hem seemed to sashay in waves.

“What I love about it is that they’re so elegant. I could see myself wearing them and I could also see my mother wearing them. They have that classic elegance,” Rashad added. Her mother is distinguished actress Phylicia Rashad, best-known for her role as Clair Huxtable on The Cosby Show. 

Rashad has recently made a name for herself starring in notable Broadway and off-Broadway theater productions.

Models bring drama, steal the show

A diverse range of models strutted the catwalk and captivated the audience with their effortlessly cool walks. Among them was Lu Sierra, a distinguished model who wowed the crowd during b Michael’s previous fashion week presentation and returned Wednesday night to open and close the show.

With a statuesque, slim frame and a walk that is as graceful as it is dramatic, Sierra proved yet again that she has mastered the art of owning the runway.

“I love it, and I’m even more honored because he asked me to open,” Sierra said of this season. “I truly believe that couture clothes need models that know how to show them.”

As for her thoughts on the looks b Michael presented that night? The stunner said: “I loved tonight’s designs. He’s timeless and I truly believe that I could wear the items six or seven years from now. They are pieces you can add to your wardrobe as opposed to having to replace [them.]”

A developing menswear collection

The designer’s menswear line featured matching blazer and pant ensembles in a variety of deep hues, made of wintry materials such as corduroy. A stunning cape jacket stood out as a must-have fall item for fashionable men.

In a previous interview with theGrio, b Michael revealed that launching a menswear collection was a spur-of-the-moment decision that “actually started by default,” as so many people were personally inspired by his clothing.

Now, fans and admirers can continue to expect fabulous looks for men that are as stunning as the women’s designs synonymous with the b Michael AMERICA brand.

“The menswear line is developing. I love it because it’s an opportunity to take my own sense of style and extend it,” he told theGrio Wednesday. “I’m loving it and really looking forward to launching a full menswear collection.” 

Click through the slideshow above to view more looks from b Michael’s 2014 Fall/Winter collection and tell us your thoughts below.

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