Daring designs close 'Mecca of Style' 2010

Sean A. Bennett, Gleaner Writer

Similar to the fortified and time-tested stones and bricks which made Port Royal's Fort Charles almost impenetrable when it was built in 1690, much of the feminine designs shown at the 10th anniversary of Saint International's second night of Styleweek 2K10 were just that - bold, some simple, others classic, yet modern, realistic and beautiful - all in unison for an almost strong showcase.

A two-hour delay, the blame could be placed at the feet of late-arriving patrons, almost took away from the beauty of Saturday night's 'Mecca of Style'.

The show had designers spread over three segments, displaying pieces which ranged from swimwear, dresses and suits - all were innovative and awe-inspiring.

Though all the collections were well-received, among the crowd favourites were Yola Grey's Spring/Summer 2011 wedding collection, which opened the night's proceedings.

The collection featured mostly white dresses along with a few colourful free-flowing, ready-to-wear pieces.

Youthful and sassy mixes

Andre Shirley's daring cuts and youthful and sassy mixes of plaids, floral and monochromatic figure-hugging dresses, with lace trimmings also scored with patrons.

In keeping with the summer motif, collections also featured sexy swimsuits. Gillespie, the third designer of the night, had crocheted bikinis, monokinis, and bandeau-top pieces. Loran V stayed true to her Jamaican roots with swimwear inspired by the nation's colours.

Niche, by Nicole, on the other hand, had mostly brightly colours pieces and cuts that didn't just flatter slender women.

One highlight of the night was the presence of the world's top black model Sessilee Lopez, who opened the show in a white, full-bodied Yola Grey design and modelled throughout the night in several Allan Virgo creations. She also wore a black, ruffled dress and a beautiful, cream, silk full-bodied dress by Donovan Depass.

Depass was also one of the night's standouts. His pieces were not only sexy, but played with geometric shapes and had a fun, flirty feel to them.

One piece in particular was a black, mini dress with a huge bow at the side made with zippers, which was a standout.

It was the latter part of the night which arguably had the most head-turning pieces. Allan Virgo, veteran designer Les Campbell, Rick B and H.O.D. had the most daring designs.

Allan Virgo's pieces were a refreshing mix of pink, white and black, with some pieces providing a new spin on the idea of corporate women's wear, by combining it with party chic.

Avant garde designer H.O.D. closed the night with his futuristic style which saw models strutting in brightly coloured stockings, knee-high skirts, with beautiful accessories and strange choices of eyewear, which added to the look.