Being bold is part of the Escada woman's identity. And so, heading into this season fresh off a visit to California's Pacific Coast, fashion director Daniel Wingate wanted to offer his confident customers more than just Resort-standard nautical fare. Upping the ante, he combined stripes with a hand-painted paisley pattern on the standout opener: a rich jacquard blazer shown over matching silk pajama-like separates. Escada has never shied away from a full-on print moment, and a slim suit splashed with an allover "terrazzo" motif (inspired by the tile work of a pool Wingate noticed in Beverly Hills) was another highlight here. Several of the lineup's solid pieces made an equally punchy impact—in particular, a hibiscus-hued double-face cashmere wrap coat paired with cropped turquoise trousers. Elsewhere, Wingate produced a handful of winning evening moments, including a pretty black cocktail dress that featured delicate chiffon appliqués and organza cutout details. As far as red-carpet numbers go, the one-shouldered red column gown with an elegant side cascade should appeal to grand dames (Jessica Lange, Helen Mirren, and Viola Davis have recently worn the label to high-wattage events) who prefer a bit more coverage but still want to be distinctive.
