NEW YORK — Christian Siriano has come a long way since Project Runway.
While the long-running reality series continues to thrill viewers, it doesn't give a designer much street cred in the fashion world. Now in its 14th season, about the only two designers who have left a lasting impression are Houston's beloved Chloe Dao, who won the competition in 2006, and Siriano, who, at 22, became the series' youngest winner in 2008.
After his big win, Siriano almost immediately began showing his collections at New York Fashion Week and eventually earned the respect of fashion insiders, who turned out to see what he has in store for spring 2016 — and found out it's all about Moroccan dreams.
Siriano decided to put his own stamp on the haunt of legendary designer Yves Saint Laurent with a collection featuring exotic textiles, fringe in circular patterns resembling lattice work and lace dresses with geometric sleeves like a Moroccan window pattern. He told reporters that he researched traditional architecture in Morocco, including mosques, as the basis for his designs.
The color palette of clay, blush and sandy-tone silks is muted, and the collection of cocktail dresses with handkerchief hems, pleated goddess gowns and tunics with wide leg trousers seemed to be begging for a dash of color.
Siriano comes to the rescue with a series of dramatic gowns, tunics and wide leg trousers in moody pastel shades of blue, yellow and orange gowns that evoke the exotic mysteries of the far away land.
Christian Siriano coastal silk strapless cascading overlay gown.
Inspired by more than a century of Shiner brewing tradition, the collaboration celebrates Texas heritage with apparel designed for everything from brewery patios to dance halls.Photo courtesy of Texas Standard and Shiner