Manning Cartell – ‘Flower Pot Men’
05-05-2009

The structured theme was exaggerated for the evening looks with a prevailing strong and dramatic silhouette which was realised through the use of silk taffeta in white, black and magenta, which was moulded into flattering sculptural shapes for one-shouldered dresses and skirts. Within this bold dialogue were cut-out shapes on dresses and possibly the best sexy black, skin-tight bondage cut-out dress I've seen. The-cut out principle was also applied to create a black lace fabrication which was made into tops, a button up collared shirt, and the most amazing thigh- length tuxedo which was the talk of the show.

These structured shapes were softened with shirts and dresses with subtle drapery in fluid silver viscose and soft cotton jersey. They offered a more effortless, luxurious alternative to the highly structured skirts and dresses, and were the only mediator between the sporty casual elegance of the collection's daywear and the bolder shapes of the dressier looks. Similarly the dramatic collection was softened up with a floral backdrop which permeated throughout the collection.
Evident within the mish-mash of the collection is the influence of early 90s couture. It appears in the stiff silk taffeta in bold magenta, the exaggerated squared shoulders, and the sexy black lace. With so much to draw from the label was lacking in either the guts or inspiration to do something truly amazing, however they did succeed in producing some individual stand-out must-have pieces which will put the label ahead of the competition.
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Article by Una Butorac and pictures by Jacqui Mitchell