By Francesca Claybrook
Christian Siriano showed his Spring 2011 line on Thursday at Lincoln Center, and the Project Runway alum hit a home run with his safari-inspired collection. In a word? Amazing. Almost every piece looks wearable, and the palette of neutrals, tan leather, and some metallic shades is right on trend. (Although there were some blouses and dresses with sleeve ruffles that don’t look quite as inspiring as the rest, but maybe I’m just not one for highlighting the upper arm area.) Several evening gowns covered in dramatic ruffles look like real showstoppers, but keep with the spirit of the collection nicely – except for that last red one. That one looks kind of like her shoulder is spewing bubble bath. Check out his full collection here – I dare anyone to tell me that first tan leather jacket is anything less than drool-worthy.
Also noteworthy were the shoes Siriano showed. These towering, caged sandals and booties are rumored to be from his Payless collection, and thus available for you to get your hands on. Let me repeat – for a totally reasonable amount, you can own these shoes.
Katrina Bowden was the biggest name in Siriano’s front row, although Mark Consuelos (yes, Mark Consuelos) was also in attendance, watching from farther away. Also spotted at the show were Maggie Grace, Australian singer/songwriter Sia, pop singer JoJo and D.J. Leigh Lezark.