A trip to New Zealand inspired Raul Melgoza's latest collection, which he described as "tribal, but for everyday wear." That would be everyday wear on the Upper East Side, presumably, not in the Land of the Long White Cloud. Melgoza's ethnic touches, influenced by the country's Maori tribes, were subtle: A gray linen jacquard shift, for example, featured tonal triangle-shaped metallic details running delicately up the sides, while a melon-hued silk dress had a wraparound shawl based on traditional Maori attire. The designer topped things off with a pair of cropped drawstring jackets in navy silk taffeta and yellow suede that were both sporty and polished. It was a pleasing enough collection for the customer who likes a bit of adventure, but doesn't necessarily want to dress too, well, adventurously.
