Reem Acra at Mercedes Benz Fashion Week

Reem Acra, in her show notes, cited Aaron Young’s famous motorcycle art as inspiration for her collection. His reductionist, raw, minimalistic work did not seem to me particularly compatible with Acra’s usual ultra feminine sensibilities. To her credit, however, she translated the artist’s work into trim, tailored silhouettes with an edgy attitude for expanded daywear, making a “compelling statement on modern femininity.” From literal laser cut leather motorcycle jacket

to tailored dresses and ensembles with similar leather laser cut details,

Acra added her spin to modern motorcycle chic. Leather was also interpreted in solid brights with contrasting pumps.

She then segued into more luxurious fabrics, adding more drape and flow in ivory, midnight and the occasional red silks.

Two of my favorite looks were the ivory dress with ink blotted trench coat and the super chic midnight navy silk satin pajama pant suit with embroidered detail at collar and waist.

two photos above by Marcus Tondo/GoRunway.com

The ink blot returned on this sleek long bias sheath

It was with the gowns, Acra’s area of supreme expertise, where she truly shone. One elegant dress after another walked down the runway, from this partially sheer gold beaded shimmer gown

to a dress with delicate gold and silver embroidery and beautiful hem movement

to this blush long gown with hand embroidery and a surprise back view.

The last couple of gowns were stunners. This midnight navy and onyx combo gown with floral paillettes screamed Oscar night

while this fuchsia and nude gown with a splash of gold floral details looked like every girl’s dream of a princess. With this collection Acra shows that she can design for all occasions from the office to the red carpet.

Unless otherwise noted, all photographs by Quintessence.