Carlos Luna Fall 2012: Simple and sexy meet the unexpected

Clean lines, unique shapes and flowing chiffon comprised Carlos Luna’s fall 2012 collection, presented at Nolcha Fashion Week in New York.  The Columbian born designer, who is an alumnus of Michael Kors and Donna Karan New York, just graduated from Parsons School of Design last year.  He said his third collection was “inspired by the Argentinian tango and really reflects the romance, sensuality and sophistication that the tango brought to Latin America.”

With this collection, entitled “Argot,” it seemed Luna seeked to expose the secret language of the tango. Its femininity was toughened by fur, zippers and leather belts.  Luna also explored unexpected turtlenecks and cutouts.

There were a handful of pieces that stood out and a few that I would really like to own.  As a fan of the combination of black and white I liked the simple white top with black trim.  It’s sophisticated, yet sexy.  The black trim provides enough detail so that minimum accessories are needed, making it easy to wear to the office.  If your office is in the fashion industry (or other creative work) or you’d like to wear it to dinner with friends, kick up the drama a notch with long dangling earrings or a black statement necklace.  Another notable B&W combo is a dress that reminds me of a Stella McCartney creation with its curving diagonal line and cutout shoulder.  The crew neck and skinny leather belt gives it a sporty feel.  I would shorten it and pair it with black strappy platforms for a sexy night on the town.

The jacket of black leather and grey wool also intrigued me.  Luna took the shape of a motorcycle jacket, kept some leather and zippers but softened it, making it sort of preppy cool.  What it has to do with the tango, I do not know, but I like this fresh take on a beloved item.

Another remarkable item is a short red dress with flowing skirt featuring leather harness-like detail.  The bondage accessory has gained popularity in recent years by appearing on stars like Sienna Miller, Rihanna, Katy Perry, Beyonce and Miley Cyrus.  This sexual statement piece looks rather demure on such a pretty dress.  The black straps and shoulder pads add just enough spice that I’d like to try it.  Another harness that I want to attempt is the corset belt from Fleet Ilya.

My favorite pieces are two striking gowns; one red, the other black and white.   The beautiful color of the red dress, high slit, unique turtleneck with side cutout and skinny belt made my heart beat quicken.  As did the final number.  I can imagine this sparkly black and white number with a deep v-cutout and turtleneck on the red carpet.  Seems like something in which Nicole Kidman would look spectacular.

With “Argot,” Carlos Luna reimagined separates and dresses with a minimalist approach, dramatic details and adventurous shapes.  Although there were a couple misses (teal long fur sleeves? no thank you), I look forward to see what he refashions next, especially in his gowns.