CUSTO BARCELONA: We met with Custo Delmau, head honcho over at Custo Barcelona, a little more than 24 hours before his big show to preview the collection and chat about what he was calling an "air show." The fabrics had more movement, sheerer yarns and silk chiffons, layered over contrasting shades and patterns, with layers of hand-sewn chunky but intricate embellishments over that. Wacky patterns of vanity sets and sequined swim trunks that his primarily international buying base seemed to adore look not too silly compared to the Betsey Johnson pieces we grew up adoring. The show couldn't have been more of a party, pumping Felix Da Housecat, with Miss Jay and Olivia Palermo in the front row. Yeah, Custo, we all want to be Prince too, but we also would like to be wearing your clothes while we're at it.
THUY: We checked out Thuy just a few seasons back when she was showing in a Chelsea studio space, where we first fell in love with her simplistic draped silk with much contemporary appeal, paired with neon tights and biker gloves. Once again, we were just taken by her appearance in the Tents with her SS'10 collection, which, as predicted, has grown into a household name for downtown girls with daddies. Thuy incorporated the ever-versatile zipper into the cut-out backs and ruched fronts of her mini dress collection, focusing on razor-cut-off-the-shoulder sleeves, statement toppers - embellished and sheer, check and check - daring built-in bustiers.
TULEH: Shorts stories was the theme at Tuleh, where designer Bryan Bradley is always known for wowing, also decided to keep his audience on their toes as the night came to an end. From hot pink and black punk rock dominatrix pieces we'd like to see Amanda from Ugly Betty own to born for the Bouvier's tea-length gowns to a somewhat surreal wedding presentation that seemed to suddenly slow the tempo of the extremely fast-paced show. We devoured every minute of it and believe theatrics should always have a role in fashion. We'll be back next season expecting an encore.
Check out our videos on our YouTube account of our behind the scenes tour and interview at Custo Barcelona and our front row first look at Thuy SS'10.
