Monique Lhuillier Fall 2016

Monique Lhuillier is full of surprises. Just when you think you have a handle on her design aesthetic, Monique Lhuillier injects a unique perspective that takes you on a completely different, but relevant journey.

From collections that were dissertations on florals to collections that were inspired by the Garden of Eden, 80s athletic wear, to 70s–inspired garments, Lhuiller’s collections are not par for the course, standard fare. Which is why ever season she expands her consumer base, and has become one of the go-to designers for red-carpet glamour. In other words, Lhuillier keeps you guessing, but in a good way.

 Taking a cue from actress and socialite Talitha Getty, for fall 2016 Monique Lhuillier really dipped into 70s glamour reference for inspiration, all evidenced in metallic lames, fanciful prints, and paisley-printed jacquards. A couple of seasons ago Lhuillier played around with a 1970s reference with a strong nod toward Studio 54; however, this season Lhuillier 70s inspiration leaned more toward an early psychedelic, free spirit influence.

This season Lhuillier also played a lot with separates and outerwear, with the outerwear being a wonderful concentration, something that is a great expansion for the brand. And you cannot forget the wonderful accessories, as well. Interestingly, Lhuillier is demonstrating that she is poised this season to push her brand beyond wonderful red carpet garments. This projection has slowly been taking form over the last couple of season; however, this season this expansion of the brand is now in full throttle.

For those who worship Lhuillier for her red carpet looks there was plenty to go around, still the standouts in this collection were Lhuillier’s outerwear. That said; other standout looks include Lhuillier’s teal leaf jacquard sweater with Alpaca metallic knit rib black silk georgette ruffle neck blouse with embellished ties, jade oversized coat with rose pink flowers, noir gold deco embroidered tulle gown, and cherry embroidered tulle tiered ball gown with blue bell lacquer floral embellishment.

And one small extra incite about this collection, Monique Lhuillier has joined forces with the likes of Mara Hoffman and some other American designers that had some of their garments immediately available after their fall 2016 runway presentations. Lhuillier had five looks to be exact. Now the question is did the “See Now, Buy Now” business model work? Time will tell.

—William S. Gooch