INDstyle

Fashion Week: Clean lines, bold design

by Amanda Bedgood

A designer with a background outside the fashion set shakes up the runway with razor sharp pieces

But a glance at the collection of Katharine Faust and the word geometric comes to mind. With precise lines, clean silhouettes and sharp stripes, the New Orleans finalist in Fashion Week's Top Design contest stood out with a kind of aesthetic likely appreciated by the same set that yearns for the clean vibe of Calvin Klein and Michael Kors.

photos by Mike Bedgood

When you read the designer's nondesign-based resume you understand more and less about the collection. With a background in graphic design and painting, fashion was not the focus of Faust's studies. But, with a passion for sewing and a clear understanding of style, Faust's collection certainly deserved a spot in the finals. And so we stand amazed that someone who didn't study fashion created such an exceptional collection.

The opening look was an on trend all black and white stripe top over a mini with sheer overlay (super huge silhouette for spring) that's just the way to wear a maxi when temps warm. A longer short (this IND Styler's favorite sort of short) managed to look updated and yet retro with a vibe far dressier than most shorts of such a length - quite a feat. And while the finale dress was a fringe-decked number we enjoyed, it was the jumpsuit that took our breath away.

While jumpsuits have lingered for some time in recent fashion vernacular, if Fashion Week is any indication, they're just getting started. This bold red one is truly a day to night piece with the swap of accessories. A stroke of genius from a woman who may not have a fashion degree, but clearly has it mastered.