Rather than do a runway show, design duo Rachel Mansur and Floriana Gavriel opted to present their see-now-buy-now spring collection in their downtown Manhattan studio. The designers set up 12 models in looks in various tableaus throughout the room, some lounging on couches, others standing in the sunlight that poured through the studio’s windows.
The presentation style provided a more personal touch and allowed those in attendance to get an up-close look at the color-coded racks of ready-to-wear and cubicles of accessory options, of which there were many.
“We are inspired by materials and color; that generally is a starting point for us with a collection,” Mansur said.
Mansur Gavriel RTW Spring 2019
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Walking through the space, a few mini themes were revealed, as seen through how the duo organized the models: menswear shirting and stripes on dresses and separates and daisy-embroidered embellishments. Monochromatic yellow and blue were the primary color palette mixed with neutrals shown in double-breasted coats, pleated skirts, soft slipdresses and Mackintosh coats. The duo styled each model themselves, aiming for an elongated silhouette.
Accessories, too, were organized into color stories. An accordion-pleat bucket bag and a train case crossbody were standout new shapes, with the duo embossing the brand name a bit larger on a singular tote style. A new ballet shaped shoe, the perfect complement to their airy and minimalist collection, was unveiled as well.