District L

As we quickly approach another week of glittering runway shows and booze-fueled model presentations, it’s important to take a moment for some fashion reflection. New York has the driving force of the industry in its name: New. When the rent is too damn high, it takes a whole new level of newness to motivate New Yorkers to buzz, shop around, and spend. Last season, it was the burgeoning, younger designers that caused a stir on the scene, so District L outlined a few points of interest on the FW2011 radar:

Last season, Ann Yee nonchalantly peppered ION Studios with her colorful array of softly layered looks. After making a notable encore appearance at CUE Art Foundation’s Night of Fashion, Yee further proved her budding star-power.

There is a whole lot to love about Jac Langheim. And what's love without a little Latex? Her latest collection presented clean, wearable silhouettes from a fabric so scandalous, that it developed its own reputation. The result? Crisp, unique pieces that can effortlessly debut at brunch and linger past cocktail hour.

If you don’t recall, District L nearly had a coronary upon leaving Sally LaPointe’s debut runway show last season. It’s rare to see ‘smoke and mirrors’ fluidly combined with actual talent. And a mere four months after her jaw-dropping presentation, the 26-year-old designer gained international awareness: Just last week, Lady Gaga wore a gown of LaPointe’s to a Las Vegas Polaroid Launch.

[Listen, Lady. We saw it first.]

Post by Amanda LaMela

Last season, ANN YEE was touted as the newest expert in androgyny, softening men's silhouettes with rich, more luxuriant fabrics. Daily Candy applauded the Nolita-based designer for offering an assertive, yet sexy alternative to the unfortunately common Oliver Twist-effect.

For Spring 2011, YEE took her story one step further, as the trending morning-after look found its way into ION Studios on Monday evening.

Models, donning over-sized sunglasses and loose layers, propped themselves against the walls of the studio. As we casually sipped our wine, the models stood chatting and laughing to one another, making the presentation seem more like a Saturday evening at Goldbar.

But what better way to display a collection of relaxed vest frocks, boyfriend-style button-downs, and silk drawstring jumpsuits? In a sun-washed palate of muted earth-tones, ANN YEE turned androgynous into simple nonchalance.

Post by Amanda LaMela

Yesterday, one of Daily Candy's "Nine designers you should know and love," sent us a sneak preview of her SS11 collection. Get a taste of what will be hitting ION Studios on September 13.