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Alexandre Herchcovitch Does Cartoon Chic

This collection by Alexandre Herchcovitch felt as it were designed for a bunch of bus conductors, albeit stewards in a rather charming coach.

Cheap versions of military caps, most bearing skull insignia, and eccentric takes of officers’ mesh jackets made for a spring summer collection created, one surmised, for a trip on the re-launched Magical Mystery Tour.

Herchcovitch, a highly rated Brazilian designer whose oeuvre is frequently characterized as tropical gothic, went for cartoonish chic in his spring summer 2007 collection shown in the Bryant Parks tents on Saturday afternoon, the second official day of the New York collections.

His leggy Brazilian model tour guides kept the tropical mood – one came in cool chiffon off the shoulder dress worn over a swimsuit. Alexandre also gave us a Paulista take on the current obsession item of women’s wardrobe, leggings, sending them out in graphic patchwork prints.

His block-print African-style bright color sheaths, ponchos, shorts and jackets did have a certain joie de vivre, ideal for women who don’t mind attracting attention with what they wear. And, a small selection of back-pleated jackets in white or kicking fabrics reminded us that Herchcovitch is an accomplished tailor.

The however, the very peculiarity of the styling – one third of the looks came under gold straw hats - and the garishness of the color palette led us to the conclusion that Herchcovitch, despite hailing from close to the Equator is essential a far stronger winter designer than one for the fairer months. Next stop his fall/winter show.

		* Vera Wang Resort: Surreal Sophistication * Jason Wu Resort: French New Wave Refresher