L.A. Fashion Week Spring '06: Ya-Ya
Los Angeles–based designer Yael Aflalo of Ya-Ya was dreaming of a weekend getaway in Mexico and Bali for the Spring 2006 collection she presented Oct. 18 at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at Smashbox Studios.
The collection’s prints were inspired by the cultural flavor of Mexican and Balinese textiles, and the silhouettes reflected Aflalo’s affinity for easy pieces.
“We make clothes that girls wear out at night and go to work in,” Aflalo said.
The designer added that she was “keeping it simple” this season, focusing on the cut and prints and only hints of glitzy hardware. Gauzy silk linen sweaters had hand-crocheted circular mirrors sprinkled around the neckline. A safari linen jacket with fine embroidery was embellished with tiny metal rings on the pocket flaps.
Aflalo played with contrasting textures for interest on monochromatic pieces such as wood beads knit into a crochet poncho or rows of lace on a chiffon dress.
The show marked Aflalo’s return to Los Angeles’ runways after showing at New York Fashion Week two years ago. The designer said she plans to “stay true to where I’m from” by supporting Los Angeles Fashion Week and the community that nurtured her career. —Rhea Cortado
