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Ann Watson of Henri Bendel Likes Vera, Chaiken, and Phi

From left: Chaiken, Vera Wang, PHI.Photos: imaxtree.com


Throughout the week, buyers from Kirna Zabête, Henri Bendel, Intermix, and more will be filling us in on which runway looks they plan to snag for spring. Today, Ann Watson, vice-president, fashion director for Henri Bendel has her eye on Vera’s pitch-perfect modernity, Chaiken’s tailored suits, and Phi’s mini skirts.

Vera Wang
Vera Wang’s romantic nostalgia for ancient Rome resulted in a luxurious mix of satin, jersey, and crinkled organza, embellished with oversize stone-bib necklaces. When she showed restraint with her voluminous silhouettes, she struck the perfect note of modernity. Her copper silk-twill bias-cut, mid-calf sheath, a navy silk-jersey draped tunic over a satin fuchsia tie-dye-print skirt, and her finely pleated Grecian gowns were stunning.

Watch a slideshow of the Vera Wang collection.

Chaiken
The show opened with what Chaiken does best: sharply tailored jackets and pants. The white pantsuit, with a seventies vibe, is the perfect option for a new spring suit. She touched on the African trend with polished safari jackets, trenches, and classic full-skirted shirtdresses. A Mediterranean-inspired print and cool blue satin injected some color in this mostly neutral collection.

Watch a slideshow of the Chaiken collection.

Phi
Andreas Melbostad knows what an urban, chic woman wants: to look long and lean, feel polished, and have a bit of irreverence all at the same time. His beautifully tailored, long menswear jackets paired over a miniskirt or a skinny pant are perfect for the office, and layering in dip dye and studded items create an unexpected mix. Must-have items for every city girl: a sleeveless shawl-lapel jacket, the pin-striped zipper trench, and a dip-dye silk-jersey slim tank.

Watch a slideshow of the Phi collection.

Ann Watson of Henri Bendel Likes Vera, Chaiken, and Phi