Velvet, Lace and Creativity…

A QUICK Q&A WITH GERMAN VALDIVIA ON THIS VELVET AND LACE COCKTAIL DRESS FROM HIS FALL 2011 COLLECTION….

Q: Why would a woman want to wear this look?

A:   She wants to make a statement.  This is a sophisticated and modern look.  The velvet strips are precisely cut to accentuate a small waist and the asymmetry was designed to make women appear taller.  For the couture client, we always play with the placement of strips on the muslin to ensure the design works with their body.

Q:  What was the inspiration for this piece?

A:  My inspiration came from the drama of the New York City skyline. Growing up in Cuba, arriving to the city as a teenager had a huge impact on my creative sensibilities.  When I draped this look, I was also experiencing so many different challenges in my life.  To me, the velvet strips represented these challenges.  When controlled and placed into perspective something beautiful can emerge.

Q: Why velvet and lace?

A: Velvet is a very luxurious fabric, lace is feminine and has a timeless sophistication.  I always love lace with geometric patterns and this is why I selected this lace.  Both fabrics combined offer a different texture you won’t find hanging on the racks.  My client wants to be different, so this combination achieves that.

Q:  How would you respond to women who are weary of wearing such a unique dress?

A: Try not to be weary so much.  Trying a new look or something new is always a positive experience.   There is value in being different yet sophisticated.