Modern, unassuming eveningwear is the niche Juan Carlos Obando has been carefully carving out for himself over the past few years. Recently announced as a 2013 Fashion Fund Finalist (he was also nominated for the award in 2008), Obando said he feels like everything came full circle this season: "This is a major moment for me. Now my dream isn't just a fantasy anymore." For Spring, he updated signature silhouettes like glam pajama sets and halter gowns in a variety of graphic prints; polka dots and bold, intersecting stripes complemented the collection's "North African Night in Madrid" theme. A new range of bijoux, including brass semicircular earrings and banded choker necklaces, also contributed to the tribal vibe. JCO's customer doesn't like to go unnoticed at a party, and she'll gravitate toward some of the attention-getting standouts here, like a fuchsia silk tie-neck blouse paired with a rippling burgundy satin ball skirt, as well as a lipstick red long-sleeve gown with a keyhole neckline and alluring open back. Obando's sultry yet sophisticated looks enable women to own the night without being owned by their dress.
