Standing among KLS’s body-grazing sheath dresses and hand-embroidered shifts, one can’t help but wonder why more celebrities don’t wear these clothes. No one knows more about standing in front of a wall of flashing cameras than Kimora Lee Simmons, the model turned paparazzi mainstay turned designer, and as such her eponymous collection is structured to support women who want to feel polished and confident in their appearance. Any of the leather-trimmed dresses or slim suits with color-blocked inserts she’s offering for Pre-Fall would do well at a press junket or on the red carpet—ditto the watercolor-inspired shirtdresses or shibori-dyed leather trousers.
If that sounds austere—or at least resolutely monochrome—see KLS’s new and improved sections of lively, colorful separates and dresses. After taking stock of what sells best, Simmons has increased her statement-piece selection, turning out rich embroideries in rainbow hues and a tropical floral print in vibrant blues or slightly more subdued corals. The prints are large-scale, so as to photograph well, and appear on easy wrap blouses and asymmetric slip dresses. Hollywood, please take note.
