Lucian Matis

Lucian Matis is the breath of fresh air at these Fall 2007 collections.

Inspired by late Victorian style, Matis treats the runway audience to a profusion of creative work that one could actually wear! High-waisted pencil skirts cut out every inch of the feminine silhouette and are paired with blouses drowning in ruffles. Ruched detail on the fanny give a little extra volume where its needed most, and more than a second glance is demanded by backslits so high they’d make a man’s nose bleed. Rich brocades and satin toile creates a Rococoesque extravagance, set off by bows and shining jet beads.

The evening dresses put the little black dress where it belongs – back in the closet! An out-of-this-world piece made of planetary fabric in metallic coppers, greens and golds provide the perfect orbit for a plunging backline. One outrageous baby doll dress frames mounds of cream lace with teal satin, and Matis’ orange gown is playfully setoff with crocheted floral details. What I would give for his silver-grey highwaisted gown, topped with a black chiffon bodice and dripping with black silk flowers gleaming with a jet beaded center!