Raul Melgoza likes flowers, and for his latest collection the Luca Luca designer turned to a master for inspiration: The late American painter Georgia O'Keefe.
Florals were a prominent theme in Melgoza's spring line, particularly rosettes, which he presented in prints and in embroidery, in bright colors and in black and white.
The latter combo made for a stunning gown to close out Friday's show at Lincoln Center, a white silk crepe number embroidered with black rosette beading.
On the more casual side, a periwinkle silk wrap blazer was paired with a berry-colored silk blouse and a rosette-print pant.
Colors were bright and whimsical, such as several numbers that combined royal blue and teal — a royal blue seersucker wrap blazer, for example, paired with a royal-and-teal striped bustier. A lime green silk crepe bustier dress managed to feel both light and sexy.
This latest collection was based less on a theme than a mood, Melgoza said backstage.
"I really wanted to emphasize sensuality and femininity, and the female figure," he said. "So, for example, I expose the shoulders, or add some sheer inset detailing."
As for the florals, he said, "I looked at O'Keefe's imagery. I wanted to present it in a modern way."
Among the front-row celebs were Ashley Tisdale, of Disney fame, and Kelly Bensimon, one of New York City's "Real Housewives."
"I just loved that last dress, the black-and-white," said Tisdale, adding that she also was drawn to the brighter colors in the line.
Another feature Melgoza included: Buttons on some items that can be left open or closed, to allow a woman to choose just how much skin she wants to show.