For Spring 2017, Bibhu Mohapatra played on the healing power of fashion, seeking to drive away the angst, trepidation, and hostility that has a strong grip on so much of the world today. Thus, he channeled one of the globe’s most harmonious, booming, and creative times: La Belle Époque. “This season I celebrate the optimistic and opulent times of the beautiful era,” said Bibhu of the assortment.
The designer also created a luxury jewelry collection called Forevermark Artemis™: his first collaboration with Forevermark. 20 of the looks in the show boasted dazzling, diamond accoutrements from the wares.
“Diamonds make fashion timeless! They make style evolve and live forever,” said Bibhu. “The Artemis™ collection is that perfect balance of aesthetics and attitude. It represents tradition, it empowers, and it aligns perfectly with the muse of the season.”
A strapless pink dress with shimmering embellished panels created the perfect palette for the collection’s drop pendant necklace, while an off-the-shoulder tulle neckline was given red carpet-perfect flair with a dazzling choker.
The rest of the assortment was playfully refined—boasting bold prints, midriff-baring crop tops, and spirited dresses for both day and night.
Striped trousers and colorblock frocks felt decidedly modern, while enchanting pearl embellishment transported the collection into the era that inspired it.
My favorite pieces in the collection were the separates. A long, printed cap-sleeve vest, a wrap crop top with a partially studded bodice, a simple, but effective high-waist slit pencil skirt, and a crisp patterned blazer were all standouts.
I fully expect to see Freida Pinto, Patina Miller, Taraji P. Henson, and Tracee Ellis Ross in these designs over the next few months—all style stars who have already been spotted in Bibhu’s looks. Perhaps he’s even working on something with a celebrity for Sunday’s Emmys…
Thoughts on the collection?