CYNTHIA ROWLEY: FITTED AMERICAN SOPHISTICATION

SPRING 2009 RTW FOR MODERN GAL GROWN-UPS WITH A NEED TO DRESS AND OWN THE LOOK

Words, Images Judith Ecochard

September 10th, 2008-West Chelsea, NYC

We have a Cynthia Rowley dress from one of her early summer collections-that snazzed up a drab but functional wardrobe on our European pack backing sojourn that lasted 4 months.

We have never gotten more compliments, in more countries, for any garb we have ever worn (and still wear)…including an Athenian declaring, “…you Americans make the best dresses.”

WE recounted this story for Cynthia Rowley in the flesh, backstage prior to her RTW runway show…she- a polished, very pretty and very cool fashion veteran.

Us-salivating over the amazing buffet courtesy of Bridgewaters To Go, gawking at the fab Bobbi Brown working her magic, and awed how relaxed Ms. Rowley seemed without a hair out of place and a warm smile for all.

We also promise ourselves (and CR) an update to our wardrobe with one of those yummy dresses from her Spring 2009 assortment!

Note to self: stay in shape.

THE SHOW:

The largely solid black and b/w assortment of sleek sheaths over racer back gauzy sheer bandeaus and fitted chemises, often with swirls of colors and Rowley’s signature eye of the beholder moniker-is very, very of this moment.

No back dated style references romped the runway!

The designer cited scuba as an inspiration for the silhouette style and fabric choices. We also channeled a riding vibe in a fitted jacket cut atop a beaded stripe dress too.

Fans of these sharply fitted but stretchy ensembles (plus there are satin split and slashed skirts and top, separates), perfectly paired with banded/ heeled sandals …should be Rivera yachters… as well as cool Williamsburg hipsters, urban office warriors, and achingly chic soccer mom types (not Sarah Palin hockey moms, however- ha ha!!!!).

Heck, we are neither of the aforementioned stereotypes---and we could see ourselves in any of these ensembles.

MAKEUP & HAIR:

The spacious, somewhat toasty backstage area was festive. Helps to have breathing room.

Bobbi Brown used “the same lip color on everyone…” a bright coral matte lip with a glacier lip gloss, a cotton candy watercolor cheek tint, and sheer foundation for a flawless and dewy look.

Mrs. B also credited “my head of pr” for getting her to sing the praises of CNBC for on-air promos. IMHO: she’s a smart businesswoman who probably doesn’t need the help of on-air talking heads.

For hair, the Tresemmé team used the “Anti-Frizz Secret Smoothing Crème” on nearly everyone to achieve the sleek look of pulled back hair with a ribbon- wrapped around a secured ponytail/bun.

Nails by Sally Hansen painted on the “Salon Nail Lacquer”on models' nails---a finish, that we were told, can last up to 10 days if speedily topped off with the “Shea Butter Rapid Finish.”