Vena Cava's Lisa Mayock and Sophie Buhai, who grew up South Pasadena and Los Angeles, respectively, are clearly having a '90s moment. The duo's fall 2011 collection was chock full of all of the iconic pieces for which the decade is known -- long figure hugging jersey dresses, square collars with long sleeves, oversized motorcycle jackets, and body con dresses all made appearances.
There were great softer moments in the show too: Blue silk crepe de chine palazzo pants and colorblock print long skirts are items that women will likely scoop up ferociously come fall.
Ted Gibson worked his magic on the hair, which felt dirty and sexy -- right out of the Seattle grunge scene from over a decade ago. Jewelry label Dannijo supplied the silver chokers, and the glam silver eye makeup (definitely the beauty "moment" of the day) were created by MAC. The shoes (a mix of easygoing ankle boots and lace-up "flatforms") were made in collaboration with Tenoversix. As model Atong Arjok said backstage, "I'm relieved, I get to wear comfortable shoes!"
While Mayock and Buhai have maintained their cool edge by giving their label a Williamsburg flair (though their studio is in Soho) and dressing the likes of Alexa Chung, based on their front row it's clear the label is on the verge of retail domination. Neiman Marcus Fashion Director Ken Downing, Bergdorf Goodman's Fashion Director Linda Fargo and even J.Crew's Creative Director Jenna Lyons showed up to support the label.
Guests of the show walked away with a 'zine that the designers had asked their friends to contribute to and condoms (yes, you've read correctly) that Vena Cava has collaborated on with Proper Attire.
