Daily Front Row

2010 June 7

Runway Reviews: Donna Karan Resort 2011

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Donna Karan Resort 2011
Giorgio Niro View Gallery

(NEW YORK) While some designers take the resort season as an opportunity to present something a bit more casual (cue Michael Kors and his “destination” collection), CFDA Designer of the Year nominee Donna Karan went for all-out glamour, which she preferred to call Holiday and themed “City Lights.” Karan’s show notes indicated a masculine/feminine play this season, evident in tuxedo-inspired pieces that took the form of crepe jumpsuits or le smoking jackets that topped her sexy, slouchy dresses. The collection was nearly all black, white, and navy, all solids but with a smattering of star prints that added a jolt of energy. One lace, full-skirted cocktail frock in particular seemed to eschew Karan’s brand of grown-up style in favor of a more youthful party-girl flavor---a smart choice in a collection that still offered plenty of the former in her signature draped goddess dresses, these in featherweight satin jersey that positively floated. As for the stunning liquid lame column dress? Karan may not be a Marchesa in terms of red carpet dressing, but it’s only a matter of time before this one gets some major play. Demi, peut-être?