08/21/08
Text: Nina Stotler
As women’s lingerie becomes less of a functional item and more of a fashionable one, the number of brands positioning themselves as lifestyle brands, while still delivering the lacy confections that make women and the men who admire them swoon. The upscale creations of well known brands like La Perla and Agent Provocateur are standards in the wardrobes of fashion conscious women, but a crop of newcomers to the American market are adding to their list of options. One of the standouts among this group is Dutch designer Marlies Dekkers. Although she is a respected, coveted brand in Europe, after 15 years in business this fashion veteran is beginning her venture to U.S shores. Following her landmark anniversary show at Amsterdam fashion week this January, featuring a colorful new collection and a circus themed party attended by hundreds of adoring fans, the effervescent designer is set to open her New York flagship in the renovated Plaza Hotel. Featuring an interior conceived by the designer herself, the store will allow shoppers access to unique looks from the Fall 2008 show, as well as previous classics.
What sets the lingerie of Marlies Dekkers’ brand apart, is an innovative sense of underwear as accessory. Many of the bras feature her signature lines and straps, both stretching across the decollate and the back, peeking out from any low cut garment. The effect is both seductive and tough, while also being functional—the fit of these designs is impeccable, comfortable and flattering to many shapes. For the new season, Dekker’s took her work in a slightly new direction, “more playful than the older work,” based around original prints that can take up to two months to create. The use of a modified tartan is a fresh look for this market and an interpretation of a punk French maid style drew attention at her triumphant runway presentation.
With well received Fall 2008 designs, as well as a solid library of established favorites, the American horizon looks bright for this fresh import.
