LaQuan Smith Spring/Summer 2013

Getting a lot of media buzz early on can be beneficial or the kiss of death to any emerging designer. If reviews are good, everyone anticipates the sophomore showing. If reviews are bad, the designer is easily dismissed as just another starry-eyed neophyte with no talent.

Since his debut showing a few seasons ago, many fashion luminaries have hailed LaQuan Smith’s bold, cutting-edge point of view. And their accolades were well merited. Smith’s spring/summer 2011 collection was a kitschy, but thought-provoking, re-imagining of the Court of Versailles fashion. Unfortunately, Smith’s spring/summer 2013 collection was a mixed smorgasbord of kittenish, fashion-as-art attire that is not only far from wearable, but at times confusing.

Entitled “Beau Jardin,” LaQuan Smith looked to the French countryside and the tranquility of nature for inspiration.  In this outing, Smith’s collection did suggest easy breezy, relaxed solitude; however, it was difficult to discern which season Smith had placed this collection. Was this collection spring/summer, resort or just beachwear? It was hard to figure it all out!!

Smith did incorporate the continuing trends of diaphanous fabrics and bold colors. Still, it is doubtful that many consumers would be comfortable walking around in garments so sheer that very little is left to the imagination.

In spite of the many missed opportunities in this collection, there were some good pieces.  Smith’s orange slit maxi jersey dress with white piping was the standout in this collection. And the orange georgette silk wide-legged pants with side slits were also a nice addition.

Every emerging designer needs some seasoning and with LaQuan Smith’s undeniable talent with just a little time and experience, success is guaranteed.

—William S. Gooch