Cynthia Steffe
The Label
Cynthia Steffe stepped down from her namesake label in 2006, allowing for the appointment of former Naum designer Waleed Khairzada. His minimalist, fabric-conscious aesthetic tempers the traditional sweetness of the line, though foundational elements like color, prints, and an airy femininity remain. The line is favored for its office-friendly mix of separates. Dresses are a constant, and the clothes are well constructed given the affordable price point.
The Look
Traditionally sweet, feminine day-to-work pieces. Party dresses, prints, and color are defining elements.
The Designer
Born in Afghanistan, Waleed Khairzada migrated to the U.S. in 1981. His skill for tailoring was honed at Harve Benard, a coat-and-suit house, where he worked for fifteen years. Khairzada, along with his business partner, Julia Jentzsch, formed the now-defunct Naum label in 2004, receiving critical acclaim and an Ecco Domani Fashion Foundation award in 2007.
