Tue 15th February
New York-based designer LaQuan Smith is no stranger to themes of sex and seduction. His eponymous label is built on provocative belly-baring, little itty-bitty, sexy silhouettes, with dressing up to get undressed in its DNA.
For his latest bombshell of a collection, he was inspired by the likes of Lil’ Kim and Grace Jones, coupled with the everyday women he’d seen trotting around the Manhattan Meatpacking District – tiny heels teetering – throughout his youth. So, for autumn/winter 2022 Smith aimed to revive this vibrant energy and conjured up what he has dubbed “the new, New York bitch.”
Leading the charge, Uncut Gems star Julia Fox stomped down the catwalk clad in a slinky, obsidian gown, hugging her frame, revealing all the good bits. Clearly, the self-declared #1 hustler isn’t crying over Kanye – this was a revenge dress for the ages.
As saucy as ever, scantily dressed girls followed suit in a range of daring ‘fits. Think micro-mini skirts that barely covered the bum, naughty corsetry, low-slung, expertly-tailored suit trousers, catsuits, bodysuits and boiler suits covered in glitter and crafted from lace, mesh and fishnet. 55 looks strong, the vampy collection adopted blood red and scarlet hues to keep it raunchy while burnt orange and golden browns brought the heat. Laced with steaming libido, the erogenous zones on display were the bread and butter of Smith’s sensual show – it was exposed hip-bones that brought the va-va-voom.
New to the table, Smith took on outerwear. Emerald shearling coats, black boleros and even electric blue ushankas offered that extra bit of protection from the elements, perfect for the party girl – and absolutely essential. The weather outside might be frightful, but that girl is going places – and she’ll be dressed to the nines all the way.
Photography courtesy of LaQuan Smith.
