How to create youthful clothes without simply slashing hemlines is the challenge Bryan Bradley tackled for pre-fall. His solution? Modesty-preserving silhouettes done up in contrasting fabrics, such as a chic cocktail dress combining vintage-inspired lace and a splashy neon rose pattern, and a somewhat less successful version with a crocheted floral bodice and camouflage-print skirt. The designer spent time interacting with his clients on the trunk show circuit this fall, and their opinions shaped the collection. Bradley reissued a series of ruffled chiffon blouses favored as office attire by his clients, while a silk kimono with exaggerated fur cuffs was inspired by a vintage ensemble an Atlanta-based fan was wearing. Talk about a smart way to put the customer first.
