Noon by Noor
Despite a woman sitting in front of me who couldn't stay still during the runway show, and switched her seat numerous times throughout (people, please stop, it's rude and distracting) to get her very artful iPhone photos (sigh), I once again fell in love with the sister duo that is the magic behind Noon by Noor. There is something so very refreshing in a world of extreme hype and aggressive fashion to view a collection of beautiful tailoring that enhances its wearer without screaming "look at me." With muted, light-colored hues (seems to be the trend for winter 2016) and a menswear silhouette, Noon by Noor created graceful clothing that is all refined elegance. Fabrics were rich, as usual, with wool boucle, cable knitwear, and black velvet. But the simple slip dresses really slayed me with their loose, easy perfection, shown either solo or paired with runway-dusting trenches. Also, almost everything was shown with a slip on loafer, and looked perfect, like why heels?
Carmen Marc Valvo
While we waited for the show to start, we leafed through the program and came across the collection description in poetic verse. It beautifully sums up the show; below, is our favorite verse:
“Quaffs of champagne with caviar beads
And a splash of Bordeaux
Bold gilded strokes a splice with strife
Lacquered lace and brocade below”
True to his brand, Carmen showcased cocktail and evening wear with rich brocades, beading, furs, and lacquered lace. While most of the collection was black and white, my favorite piece was a Bordeaux evening gown with a deep V cut, definitely red carpet swoon-worthy. Other metallic column gowns, occasionally paired with a fur collar, drew "Oohs" and "Ahhs" from the crowd. While his menswear largely consisted of modified black suits, I did like the leather detailing.