Christian Siriano showed a few relatively unfettered looks for fall. But many of his evening dresses and gowns, shown on plus-size models, which had the admirable intent of underscoring the value of diversity, missed the mark.
The blazing metallic fabrics, rendered in unflattering silhouettes, had an abundance of add-ons and details rather than the requisite grace and fluidity that would have made his inclusiveness a point well taken. That glittery, excessive approach also surfaced in most of Siriano’s lineup: jackets with a single fake-fur sleeve, a one-sleeve jumpsuit, flounces, high slits and long trains.
What worked best here were some of the lacquered black velvets, especially the Victorian-sleeve peplum blouse and trousers. These were very different from most of Siriano’s fare, and these exits suggested the designer knows how to execute elegance without going overboard.