New York Fashion Week spring-summer 2013: Gregory Parkinson

NEW YORK -- The collection: L.A.-based designer Gregory Parkinson showed his spring-summer 2013 collection Friday during New York Fashion Week. The presentation was held in an all-white space with windows overlooking the Hudson River. Parkinson, a runner-up for the 2010 CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund Award, has garnered a lot of attention this year for collaborating with Anthropologie stores on a lower-priced collection. Several fall styles recently hit the stores.

But his main line shown Friday afternoon wasn’t anything close to fast fashion. Each garment was made of French lace and hand-sewn by the designer himself. As Parkinson said, “I spent my summer sewing.”

Photos: New York Fashion Week celebrity sightingsThe inspiration: Slowing down and appreciating quality. Making the finest of materials feel personal enough to wear while entertaining at home.

The look: Future heirlooms. Utterly charming, ikat-embroidered organza dresses diffused with multiple layers of sheer and opaque French lace in powdery pastel hues like “turkish delight,” jewel tones and florals. Added details included Lurex appliques. Silhouettes were flattering and feminine, with hems hitting just below the knee or a little longer. “I love the word ‘gay,’” Parkinson said. “I wanted this collection to have a celebratory feel.”

While the lace in this collection hinted at the lingerie trend that’s emerging for spring, Parkinson’s work is beyond trends. It’s in a category all its own.

The scene: Low-key. Champagne was served, which added to the garden party atmosphere.

The verdict: Truly special. Each one of these dresses was a work of art.

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