Rachel Comey has become synonymous with laid-back, downtown cool. But for spring '13, Comey, who showed her collection yesterday afternoon at Pier 59 studios, took a less casual—though no less "cool"—approach, offering up dressy, evening-ready looks with an uncharacteristically girly appeal.
Rendered in a palette of pale pinks, taupes, and bold blues with bursts of searing chartreuse and scarlet red, the spring collection was thoroughly dress-driven.
The best were cut in simple shapes and finished with surprisingly un-Comey-like details; A white cocktail dress with a sheer silk bodice and carefully embroidered skirt, for example, featured lush beadwork in orange, green and silver down the front. On the other hand, a pale pink shift exploding with undulating ruffles felt somewhat disconcerting given Comey's tomboy MO.
Thankfully, there were still a few sporty separates to sate Comey's more rough n' tumble fanbase: A peach-khaki short suit with a sheer black blouse; a groovy printed crop top and woven black hot pants.
Swimwear, though, provided the greatest contrast to Comey's fancy new frocks. A silvery one-piece maillot felt classic yet practical, while a more dramatic, mixed-fabric suit with ties down the front is perhaps better suited to stylish pool-side lounging. All were paired with sleek new sunnies designed in collaboration with Prism—a smart move given Comey's brisk accessories business.
Rachel Comey Goes Fresh and Modern for Fall 2012
