Inspiration can come from anywhere: for Thakoon Panichgul it was the bouquets of peonies and hydrangeas he received from well-wishers after he was nominated for the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund. The designer took the flowers as his starting point, using weighty fabrics like taffeta and organza to create form, and employing ruffles and pleats to make delicate petal sleeves and layered rosebud miniskirts. A standout for evening was a rhubarb-colored column gown worn by Kim Noorda, which had a subtle appliqué underskirt. In contrast, a short trapeze trench over a blossom skirt looked more like a sculpture than a viable wardrobe choice. Kimono shapes popped up throughout the mostly floral collection, adding variety to an accomplished, pretty, but somewhat one-note show.
