Maria Cornejo isn't an inspiration-collection kind of designer. Her vision is as consistent as they come. Whether she's designing for Spring or Fall, you can ID her drapey frocks from across the room. But a December trip to Miami ("after Art Basel, when it was empty," she said) did leave her in a steamy frame of mind for Resort. Bird of paradise brights were sprinkled in among the neutrals and blacks she's better known for, putting her in step with the season so far. And prints based on iPhone pics she snapped of native plants added to the subtropical vibe.
Still, the results were more than city-ready. What looked freshest were in fact pieces that stemmed from a different impulse. "People know me for my dresses, but I like to do something boyish and tailored sometimes, too." Cue a boxy one-shoulder top and slouchy pants in purple-black silk taffeta that would make a very cool alternative to an L.B.D. for the right party girl. It'll be in stores just in time for Art Basel this December.
