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While many shows during Fashion Week attract guests who put on their meanest scowlss aka "I smell dookie" faces as they watch the models strut down the runway, the Chris Benz Spring 2011 presentation seemed to put huge smiles on the faces of all who entered the Atrium near Lincoln Center, captivated by the exuberant colors, happy silhouettes, and cheerful pop music that filled the air. I even saw one Carmen Electra snapping her fingers and bopping her head to the beat. You might even go so far as to say she was dancing. I loved this show, not just because it was happy but because the clothes were exciting and different, although they clearly referenced the '60s.
The designer cited his inspiration as "a '60s ex-pat model in Paris," which played out in bow tie blouses, high waists, a retro color palette, platforms, tweed jackets, colorblocked shifts and full skirst and but there were plenty of modern-day touches to explore, like artsy embroidery, futuristic florals and unusual cut-outs. Purple nail polish was icing on the cake. Celebs in attendance included J.Crew's Jenna Lyons, Kelly Osbourne, Jessica Szohr, Alison Pill. See if you can spot Susan Sarandon, Carmen Electra (from the back; hint her hair's in a bun) and The Rachel Zoe Project's Brad Goreski in my photos, all after the jump!
(www.wordsandwardrobes.com)