Naeem Khan Fall 2014

Red carpet alert.

There’s no question that pieces form Naeem Khan’s fall 2014 collection will turn up on the red carpet of upcoming Hollywood events. The only question is when and on whom.

Khan’s oeuvre has long been elegant evening wear. The designer recently launched a bridal line as well.

For his fall 2014 collection Khan said he was inspired by the cabaret world and boudoir. And when it came to sexy and dark with a touch of risqué and dramatic decadence, Khan more than delivered. What distinguished the collection is that Khan kept things classy and imbued with the elegance that has become his trademark.

The collection opened with looks that could have been inspired by the boudoir—a series in black  embroidered with 24 karat gold filigree. From there Khan channeled the cabaret with a combination of cocktail dresses and gowns worthy of a chanteuse.

There was fringe that shimmied, beaded stripes that raced up and around body curves, and beaded flourishes that teased and tantalized. Two of the most intriguing creations were gowns—one in gold and another in black and white that teased with almost totally sheer panels from hip to ankle save for a scattering of horizontal beaded panels.

Khan also worked his magic with leopard print with the spots created from stacks of sequins. One of the best of these was a cocktail dress and a gown with ostrich feather skirts dyed to match the leopard print. Done with Khan’s skillful hand, these looked spectacular. But we shudder at the prospect of seeing the cheap knockoffs that are certain to follow.

Still, Khan offered plenty of winners for those living the luxe life to enjoy including a picture-perfect series in red and black and a couple of beaded creations that had a honeycomb effect.

—Karyn D. Collins