A RUSSIAN FANTASTY FIT FOR A DR. ZHIVAGO DREAM

Pamella Roland is one of those great American designers who knows her audience, knows her aesthetic, and isn’t afraid to take her vision all the way.  For Fall/Winter 2013, she took it all the way to pure opulence.

This Russian Palace-inspired collection left nothing out: rich, buttery leathers, glimmering brocades, thick, lush wools, soft velvets, intricate lace, big ruffles and beautiful beading.

Brocade shorts were topped with a long, luxe cape.  Patterned cigarette pants peeked out under a long, black coat.  A beaded bodice gave way to a flowing party dress with a ruffled hem.  Outerwear was fitted and snug.

For the most part, the collection was dark, based in black.  And the majority of the colors were deep jewel tones: rich purple, deep green.  But it lightened up with the occasional pop of red, or a sky-blue with a woodland print that was just spectacular.

Evening wear is where Roland really shines, and it is no wonder her popularity on the red carpet is growing.  Her gowns emit absolute glamour, in a way reminiscent of a far more elegant time, but still very, very modern.  Each one was perfectly fitted, designed to show off the body of the woman who wears it in the best possible way.

Pamella Roland is one of those designers whose job it is to remind us that glamour is always in style, and it’s up to us to be bold enough to embrace it.

Photography: Anton Brookes