With the unbearable discomfort of this summer's many heat waves still fresh in mind, Yigal Azrouël's Spring 2011 collection seemed like an all-out call to arms—a defiant challenge, even—against the threat of more 100-plus degree days. In this case, more became less as light-as-air layering enabled by sheer, diaphanous fabrics was an overarching element throughout the collection. The silk separates, so lightweight they were transluscent at times, ran the gamut from blouses and tunic tops, to tanks and silky drawstring bottoms.
Azrouël, typically known for his attention to drapery, let the fabrics speak for themselves. While the cuts were often clean and streamlined, the pieces were still marked by an sinuous fluidity. Simplicity reigned throughout the collection, however the occasional hardware accent and specific detailing towards the neck area gave Azrouël's collection a necessary punch of relevance.
As his models stomped down the runway to drum and bass-heavy tribal beats, their neon eye makeup took on an effect that extended beyond its trendiness this season: warpaint. The dog days of summer won't be back for another nine months or so, but when they arrive, Azrouël's girl will be ready.
