What inspired you for fall 2012?
For the fall 2012 collection I was inspired by the idea of dress-up, of sparkle, shine and the merriment of the holidays. Judy Garland, midwestern travel and the charm of 1950s formality formed are the foundations of the collection.
How does this play out in terms of colors, materials and shapes?
The palette is based in the primary shades of traditional holiday splendor—rich vermillion, evergreen and an array of milky white and ivories. The shapes are boxier and focus on a high waist with more volume on top. Materials support the notion of dress-up with an ample dose of sparkle and shine—crunchy lamé taffeta, duchess satin, micro-paillettes and fuzzy wools.
What music did you listen to while designing this collection?
Charlie Parker.
What do you look for when casting your presentation?
I always look for models with a personality and a spark. It's not always about the most beautiful or striking, but a richer inner spirit to embody the Chris Benz girl.
How do you stay energized/balanced in the weeks leading up to nyfw?
Iced coffee and Sudafed.
What other show(s) are you looking forward to seeing this season?
As always, I look forward to my alma maters—Marc Jacobs and J.Crew.
How do you plan to unwind after Fashion Week?
I hop on a plane the day after the show for Premiere Vision (spring 2013 fabric selection!), and then London to catch the tail end of fashion week there.
Chris Benz will present his fall 2012 collection on Monday, February 13th at Avery Fisher Hall at Lincoln Center.
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