Pass on Pastels, Keep Your Little Black Dress

After the bleakness of winter, pretty pastels and florals almost seem like a spring fashion necessity. But this spring, you may want to forgo your florals and passé pastels to try one of these new looks. The Exclusiva Eventi Spring 2013 Fashion Show this weekend showcased three designers who are reimagining spring fashion with black, texture and traditional South-Asian apparel.

Held at the beautiful Ritz Carlton in Georgetown to raise funds for Operation Smile, the fashion show included models Shannon McAnally, Miss VA USA, and Jessica Frith, Miss DC USA, and brought together fashion-conscious Washingtonians. Whether you’re in need of inspiration for your own closet or curious to see what’s ahead in spring fashion trends, take a look at what these designers created this season.

Looks from designer Nathalie Kraynina’s collection, “Reinventing Black” (Photos by Phil Kogan)

While you may be eager to shed those heavy, dark winter garments in exchange for light pastels and airy ensembles, think twice before tucking away that little black dress. The “Reinventing Black” collection by designer Nathalie Kraynina is a refreshing, edgy take on what is usually a soft and girly season. Based on the idea of the little black dress, she playfully mixes the sophistication of black with structured forms and carefully placed cutouts. The little windows of skin in unexpected places break up an otherwise stark black ensemble and create a subtle, but eye-catching, outfit. Pair it with a bright colored handbag or colorful pumps and you’ll look refined while making a style statement.

Designs by Tara Milani (Photos by Phil Kogan and Liz Parker)

Inspired by Persian/European apparel, Tara Milani‘s collection is the epitome of elegance. Containing bold color-blocked dresses to sleek, form-fitting gowns. Milani also passes on the typical frilly and girlish aspects of spring fashion and instead focuses on designs for the “successful and demanding” woman. Most of her dresses at first appeared fairly conservative from the front, but when the models turned around on the catwalk to reveal stunning backless cuts, the crowd let out a collective gasp of delighted surprise. A simple, unadorned back with luxurious lace embroidered fabrics lend so much grace and sultriness to otherwise simple cuts.

Pure Elegance designer Parna Ghose with model in bridal sari. (Photo by Phil Kogan)

Guests oohed and aahed when South-Asian bridal and party wear designs by Pure Elegance took the catwalk. This picture of designer Parna Ghose with her model captures the essence of her collection: it’s joyful and celebratory. Her saris and suits take modesty for a spin with a little bit of midriff and a whole lot of bling. The bright bold colors and deatiled embellishments are breathtaking. According to Ghose, just one of her bridal saris can take up to four months to create! If you have a special event this spring, maybe try branching out and wearing a gorgeous sari skirt and cropped, tight-fitting top. If you’re too shy to bare your midriff, a beautiful scarf to drape over shoulder should provide the necessary coverage!

Between rediscovering your black wardrobe and playing with textures and saris, these spring lines should keep your wardrobe fresh and fun!