NEW YORK - The Tokyo Summer Olympics aren't until 2020 but U.S. designers are catching the Japanese wave early with spring 2015 collections that incorporate exquisite origami folds, kimono-influenced patterns and intricate floral fabrics.
Roland was so taken with a recent trip to Japan that she created a collection that infuses the spirit of the Gardens of Kyoto and the works of Japanese artist Toko Shinoda.
Pamella Roland, a featured designer at Elizabeth Anthony, was so taken with a recent trip to Japan that she created a collection that infuses the spirit of the Gardens of Kyoto and the works of Japanese artist Toko Shinoda, developing a pattern based on his abstract brush strokes.
She opened her collection with a series of Zen-like creations in white or pale pink, adorned only with a obi belt or braided cord at the waist or dotted with hand-painted cherry blossoms.
Then she shifted to floral and lace dresses and evening gowns — her specialty — beaded in a rock garden or bonsai motif, in fish-printed silks or with an obi flounce at the hip. The look is a bit toned down and reflective from Roland's usual sparkly standards, but nevertheless makes a striking fashion statement.
Like Texas designer Lela Rose, who also featured a confident Japanese-influenced collection, Roland showcased some creations with a exposed triangle opening just above the navel. It's a unique look, although, as I previously mentioned, it takes an unusually confident woman with unusually taut abs to flaunt that part of her body.
Roland closed her collection with a strapless wedding gown with a flowing train that floated behind the model as she dramatically walked the runway. The designer is launching a namesake bridal collection in fall 2015 and, from this first hint of what's to come, she's likely to be successful.
Pamella Roland ivory/taupe basketweave jacquard dress with hand origami folding.
Agua by Agua Bendita, the beloved Colombian brand known for its hand-embroidered artistry and deep reverence for Latin American culture, will debut is Spring/Summer collection in Houston. Photo courtesy of Agua by Agua Bendita/Facebook
