Pamella Roland Spring 2019

The late great Diana Vreeland once proclaimed that, “fashion is both now and next.” Almost fifty years later, Vreeland’s fashion prediction still applies.

For spring 2019, the flora and fauna and modern architecture of the tropical island of Bali inspired Pamella Roland for her red carpet–ready collection. True to form, Roland’s spring 2019 collection was stunningly beautiful, in the tradition that her die-hard fans have come to expect from her.

Roland conjured up images of Bali’s exquisite bold colors and textures in a collection that was rich in vibrant colors and embroideries. These bold color tones and textures aptly represented the modern architecture and lush flora and fauna of Bali as could be seen the collection’s fabric manipulation, sleek angles and silhouettes.

If there was a bit of next in this spring 2010 outing, that future projection was made evident in Roland’s use of 3D floral jacquard. And though Roland’s use of 3D floral jacquard was admirable, the combination of 3D techniques paired with floral jacquard did not come across as next, this pairing landed more in the area of matronly charm.

That said; unlike Vreeland’s eternal fashion prediction, Roland’s spring 2019 fashion collection, though now, definitely was not infused with a lot of next. And here lies the rub!! Perhaps, due to a rather staid retail market that doesn’t take much risk, for spring 2019 Rolland has stayed true to her established design aesthetic without pushing that aesthetic in a youthful or innovative direction. Her diehard fans will be pleased, but with this collection Roland will probably not expand her base, especially that youthful consumer who is always looking for something a little more avant-garde or unexpected.

There were several standout red-carpet looks in this spring 2019 collection. The most noteworthy looks include Roland’s yellow silk organza draped gown with tonal pearl seamed outline, gold metallic fringe and 3D sequin-embroidered cocktail, black satin and stretch crepe strapless cocktail with 3D petal-embroidered bodice, blush and yellow confetti-embroidered strapless cocktail and white ostrich feather hem, and blush and gold hand-painted ombré tulle ball gown with feather and crystal-embroidered bodice.—William S. Gooch