Mara Hoffman Spring 2012

Photos by Alyssa D'Alessandro

Mara Hoffman names “Mexican Mamas” as the inspiration for her SS 2012 presentation that debuted at The Box during MBFW last Friday where a mariachi band evoked the collection’s feel. The “Mexican Mamas” theme was influenced by artist Frida Kahlo’s personal style and by Aztec prints that were crafted in vibrant neon colors.

All of the prints used in the collection were created in-house, including a tribal and neon print named “Veracruz.” “Techno Animal” is a cheery and fun print featuring brightly colored animals. The bright prints were countered with beautiful black and white jumpsuits and maxi dresses that were accessorized with colorful Holst and Lee tubular rope necklaces and diamond-shaped knitted earrings. Tiered bohemian, peasant, and crocheted dresses in muted colors added a very romantic feel to the collection. Several transparent silk pieces like rompers with sheer middles, pants featuring neon shorts underneath, and tops over neon, custom-made bralets added texture and unexpected pops of color.

Our favorite has to be this blue poncho with pink details and a bold Aztec print, which was paired with hot pink shorts. The poncho’s dramatic and draping back had amazing movement!

Hoffman’s neon green, yellow, pink, and blue prints were used for the models lace-up Holst and Lee sandals and were even featured in their braided buns. Nick Irwin for TIGI continued the tribal feel of the collection by crimping the models hair for gorgeous texture, adding synthetic crimped hair, and braiding individual strips of the season’s prints into regal up-dos that were sometimes accented by feathers.

Keeping an eye out for clothes with unique and graceful movement was acclaimed fashion photographer and America’s Next Top Model judge, Nigel Barker, whose wife used to model for Hoffman’s shows! Ashley Tisdale also came by to admire the collection after attending Rebecca Taylor’s show.

- Alyssa D'Alessandro