For Fall Winter 2011 Ivana Helsinki's "Velvet Lake" collection launched at the closing show of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week (MBFW). Lead designer Paola Suhonen started the line as a personal art project. 13 years later, Ivana Helsinki is the only Scandinavian brand to officially show during MBFW.
On Thursday evening, dresses, gowns, and tunics told the story of moons and magic as each model graced the runway. My favorite pieces, in this 45 look collection, were either feathered or fringed. Paola has a knack for using these embellishments in a modern elegant way. I especially loved a little black velvet dress with fringed sleeves and the fringed evening gown that closed the show. The pallet ranged in color from midnight black, to emerald green, to lighter hues of grey, and butterscotch. The signature "Velvet Lake" printed pieces reoccurred, making the collection feel well rounded and cohesive.
Most looks were paired with patchwork boots by Seychelles. When describing the collaboration with this vintage-inspired shoe designer, Paola says, "channel the Scandinavian version of Brigitte Bardot."
photos: Lesley Wililams © 2011
To check out my photo flipbook from Ivana Helsinki collection for SS2011 click here!
