New York Fashion Week Fall-Winter 2011: Gregory Parkinson’s luxe color and pattern play

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L.A. designer Gregory Parkinson, a finalist for a Council of Fashion Designers of America award last year, showed a superb collection constructed from mixed tweeds and brocades in soft lavender, pink, blue and gray, foil-printed with lace or floral designs, then dip-dyed and bleached to add to the effect.

The romantic details, and ladylike silhouettes -- full skirts and ball skirts, fitted, belted jackets, and frock coats -- elevated Parkinson’s collage-y look from craftsy to demi-couture.

But it wasn’t just about dressing up. The collection was rounded out with chiffon appliqued T-shirts, wide-leg brocade pants and cardigan jackets that a woman could really make her own.

I only wish the lighting had been better so I could have seen the colors and layered textures in all their glory.

-- Booth Moore in New York