Los Angeles Fashion Week Fall I 2003: Susana Mercedes
Susana Mercedes dug deep into her Central American roots for her Fall 2003 collection, which she debuted on April 4 during Smashbox Fashion Week in Culver City.
The couture collection emphasized texture and color, using bright red, blue and yellow. Mercedes said she searched high and low in her Guatemalan homeland for a supply of rich, native textiles in tribal colorations. These the Los Angeles designer blended with Italian satin to create feminine silhouettes that reflected indigenous influences without appearing too costume- oriented.
Incorporating heritage along with personal tastes, such as her love of motorcycles, Mercedes offered jumpsuits, hot pants and bodysuits that contrasted with traditional wraps, romantic skirts, cape tops and apron dresses. Asymmetrical tops and miniskirts were also prominent. Detailing such as “bolitos” (pompoms) graced some of the outfits and a few handbags that are part of an accessories line the designer is launching with designer Mary Jo M. —Robert McAllister
