Pre-fall appears to be the season of a practical design mentality, where clothes are increasingly becoming more buy-now-wear-now, speaking to consumers’ craving for instant fulfillment. Deliveries hit stores in May and June at the onset of summer, and many designers this season have been using lighter fabrics rather than heavier materials that transition into fall. There’s also something to be said about versatile clothing that can transition from day to night, casual to formal, with multiple wearing opportunities.
These notions pertain even to eveningwear designers such as Naeem Khan, who is somewhat of a go-to for intricately beaded and embroidered evening gowns. But he’s spent the past few seasons expanding on separates, which has opened up new markets and the idea of effortless evening for a younger consumer. “We’re trying to design things you can actually have fun with but that aren’t overly embellished,” Khan said at a preview in his showroom.
Without sacrificing his signature lavish embellishment and techniques, Khan offered a range of mix-and-match tops for all-occasion dressing. Black and white floral embroidered knits were a casual answer to alternative evening when paired with a full skirt; ditto for intricately beaded blouses and cardigans. Little sweaters, off-the-shoulder printed blouses and sheer tops could be dressed up or just as easily grounded with jeans. These were all youthful, airy and effortless.
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There was a great assortment of signature beaded dresses, cocktail jumpsuits and a happy grouping of floral prints and handmade floral laces. A tea-length dress, especially, appealed to both core customers and a younger audience, featuring a full hip and corseted bust.