Mara Hoffman F/W16

As I walk into Hoffman Hall at The High Line Hotel in Chelsea, its as though I’ve been transported to an insanely glamorous dinner party. I half expect to see Andy Warhol and Pierre Berge among the crowd, but sitting and standing before me are three generations of women adorned in 70s inspired velvet suiting, flowing Aztec prints and sequined tunic dresses. The scene evokes a bygone era that has been reinvented with a modern touch. The modern touch of Mara Hoffman. This is FW16.

I work my way around the room beginning on the right where I’m greeted by an ivory jumpsuit with a plunging neckline, open back and billowing sleeves. It’s a statement piece, strong and feminine, reminiscent of 1970s power disco. Surrounding the vision in white are Aztec prints in gold, red and aqua. Tunics draped over wide leg pants, floor length gowns and silk suit separates all bear the exotic print.

At the center of the party is an icon in her own right, Ilona Royce Smithkin, the 90+year old ingénue flanked by crimson haired twin sisters. All three are beautiful, dressed in a whimsical safari print that flows beyond their feet and drapes off their shoulders. It’s a magical scene to watch the three interact. They fully embody the eclectic coven of dreamers Hoffman has created for FW16.

As I weave my way towards the other end of the party, the scene transitions to zebra print dresses in both the classic palette and dripping with sequins. I come across a crushed velvet suit with silk scarf lapels that glistens from every angle. The powerful female identity is intoxicating. I make a mental note to purchase every piece in the collection.

Finally, I reach the end of the decadent party. The bright safari print in tangerine and aqua has segued to a leafy aubergine and deep green. Long, oversize coats are paired with berets and white brimmed hats making the wearer somehow show stopping and inconspicuous at the same time. The final look (for me) is a full-skirted gown with plunging neckline. It’s elegant, exotic and incredibly sexy. I’m smitten.

Mara Hoffman took us through moments of strength, femininity and fantasy. An experience that mirrors each leg of a dreamer’s journey.

Photos by Matthew Passiglia