September 5, 2007

Adam Lippes’ spring 2008 show began with a squeal of delight from the audience and an upbeat mash-up of Feist’s Sea Lion, a tune familiar to most college students. The collegiate life was, in fact, the central theme of Lippes’ polished yet predictably preppy collection. Sleeveless shift dresses in delicate fabrics with geometric circles or bronze hardware were just the sort of charming but easy looks his young audience craves—as were his textured, pleated shorts and short-sleeved jackets over chiffon blouses. He did, however, take some not altogether successful risks. Rich blue and purple pieces in ombre and stripes permeated his otherwise neutral palette. Although strong color distracted from the details of a secretary-style blouse, a few stripes completed a gorgeous white mini-dress with a low back. A floor-length chiffon gown was updated in a fuchsia hue, perfect for the grown-up party girl still vying for attention. Lippes also included subtle Japanese touches. Unfortunately, a pale yellow and silver kimono style dress with an obi belt was both too flashy and exotic to blend with the rest of the collection. Despite minor disappointments, Lippes is certainly showing serious efforts to both expand and entertain his audience.