LaQuan Smith has once again set the bar high with his latest runway show. Hosted at the luxurious Rainbow Room, guests were welcomed with the finest caviar and champagne, and a star-studded crowd, including Kimora Lee Simmons, Lil Nas X, and Ashley Biden, mingled in an atmosphere of glamour and sophistication.
LaQuan Smith, known for his extravagant venues and show-stopping productions, opened the event with a nod to the iconic TV series “Dynasty“, with Joan Collins’ memorable voice filling the room. The collection, which showcased Smith’s growth as a designer, featured a range of sultry evening wear, tailored jackets, statement coats, men’s looks, and pieces that even Smith’s mother, sitting front row, could wear.
The designer’s cut has become more precise, and his choice of materials, more intentional. Smith’s boss ladies donned tuxedo-inspired looks, with a standout piece being the black minidress with an asymmetric satin lapel halter. The designer also showcased cropped tuxedo jackets, high-waisted pants, sheer burnout velvet polka-dot blouses, and a white tuxedo miniskirt suit.
Smith’s nod to the Studio 54 era was a highlight of the show, with stretch suede gowns and catsuits, scooped out at the sides, or with keyhole openings, styled with cool throwback goggles. The designer also embraced the season’s plush outerwear trend, showing a hooded shearling coat styled over a white crystal cutout monokini.
Smith’s attention to detail and craftsmanship was evident in every piece, and he wanted the audience to see this close-up, making the show an intimate affair. The designer even tapped into his menswear element, dressing Lenny Kravitz for the CFDA awards.
For his final bow, Smith stripped off his black coat to reveal a body-hugging long-sleeved lace top and flared trousers, proving that he’s his brand’s best model. Smith attributes his success to paying close attention to his customer’s shopping habits, and he’s thrilled to see that women are not just coming to him for that one special dress, but for a range of items that they can interchange throughout the day.
