Who is Alexander Berardi? That was the question on everyone’s mind after the debut of the designer’s spring/summer collection the other night at the Altman Building in Chelsea. Though his name sounds impossibly foreign and exotic, Berardi is an Upper East Side-raised Parsons grad, but his clothes are no less chic. His collection this season was inspired by a photo of family friends sailing on Martha’s Vineyard. The looks in our opinion, however, were less nautical and more summer party under the stars (or at least under lights strung over a backyard garden).
Working with all-natural fabrics, Berardi showed cropped tuxedo blazers and sequined cardigans paired with pleated, tiered dresses and layered mini-dresses. Though they were impeccably tailored and detailed, the garments looked effortless and easy as they came down the runway. Soft grays, beiges and blacks set a classic tone, while the sequins added just the right amount of glamour. We loved the versatility of the pieces and the way they were sexy without being overt — not always an easy balance to strike. The audience seemed taken by many of the pieces that were shown, with audible “oohs” and “ahhs” in particular for some of the beautiful dresses and crinkle blouses. By the end of the show it was clear this was a collection many women would want to wear and own. And Alexander Berardi would be a name on many people’s tongues the very next day.
(photos by Dan Lecca)
- TC
