Elie Tahari often draws inspiration from architecture, and this season he referenced the unique curved lines of a new train terminal in Madrid created by Santiago Calatrava. That served as a jumping-off point for the designer's Resort outing, which emphasized a sculptural aesthetic that was also sensual, as evidenced by the opening neoprene sheath splashed with an abstract brushstroke print. After four decades in business, Tahari has fine-tuned his formula for wearable, work-to-weekend basics with an urban twist. As usual, the latest lineup offered sporty tailored pieces, including a sharp white jacket accented with perforated mesh details on the sides, which paired terrifically with relaxed black culottes. Elsewhere, Tahari focused on longer lengths (found on crinkle-pleated maxi skirts) and styled many of his looks with slip-on sneakers that felt modern.
Other highlights included a tough biker jacket cut from a soft, washed leather, as well as an open, unlined suede coat in a vibrant shade of "guava." While Tahari's contemporary customer typically comes to him for pieces to blend into the city landscape, he also knows how to whip up an evening look to get her noticed. Case in point was the finale strapless number that combined a scuba fabric with sheer, flocked mesh and flattering seams. During a preview of the collection, Tahari launched into a story about that dress. His pretty date to the CFDA Awards wore it, and it earned her quite a bit of attention on the walk back home. Stumped by the wave of catcalls, Tahari eventually flagged down a cab to bring them the remainder of the way. Talk about va-va-voom factor.
