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Christian Sirano's Fantasy-Filled Backyard Fashion Show Was One for the Books
The Project Runway mentor and designer put on the most incredible runway show in his own Connecticut home.
In what has been quite a year for fashion designers, Christian Siriano never slowed down. The Bravo's Project Runway mentor was one of the first designers to lend a helping hand during the ongoing coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Earlier this year, Christian halted productions of his dreamy gowns and turned his team's efforts toward producing face masks for the public. Even so, Christian still managed to churn out another whimsical collection (his 37th) just in time for New York Fashion Week.
Always one to set his own standards when it comes to the fashion industry, Christian put together a unique presentation to display his latest designs. On September 17, the designer debuted his Spring 2021 collection at his beautiful abode in Connecticut in a socially distant presentation.
"I feel like everybody's been quarantining at home, so I wanted my fashion show to be at my home, so people felt a little personal touch to Fashion Week," Christian told BravoTV.com from the backstage area inside of his home.
This sense of comfort and familiarity also extended to Christian's collection, which was driven by nostalgia. Christian shared that he was inspired by some of his favorite old '80s and '90s movies, including Don't Tell Mom the Babysitter's Dead, Clueless, and Troop Beverly Hills. "I really wanted it to be fun, fantasy fashion," he said.
His vintage source of inspiration translated into a playful collection bringing back retro-style paint-stroke prints, poofy tulle skirts, asymmetrical hemlines, and plenty of statement sleeves intertwined with modern couture styles and his signature romantic gowns. Each look was topped with this year's most necessary and popular accessory — a face mask — that complemented their ensemble. Shoes were provided by fellow designer and friend Sarah Jessica Parker.
In addition to featuring a beautifully inclusive cast of models (including a pregnant Coco Rocha), Christian's show also spotlighted major issues. "I think it was really important to support Black Lives Matter," Christian shared. "A young Black designer got to show her handbags on the runway today."
Christian also embellished several of his designs with a straightforward call to action. "'Vote' is everywhere," Christian explained while donning a black-and-white "vote" face mask himself. "'Vote' was on clothes because I think whatever you believe in, we just need it to be a fair game. So, everyone should vote."
As for makeup, Lead Artist for Maybelline New York Vicent Oquendo heavily focused on the models' eyes with a bold eyeliner look inspired by old Hollywood stars like Edie Sedgwick and artist Andy Warhol.
And in perhaps one of his most dramatic closings ever, Rocha ended the show by jumping in the pool in a ruffled red gown.
