Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim/Cruise 2009: Shay Todd
The Setai hotel was the perfect backdrop to showcase Shay Todd’s seductive gypsy-inspired collection. Todd and her husband, Shiro Gutzie, presented the collection on July 18 with an intimate cocktail party and late-night runway show in the courtyard of the chic Miami Beach, Fla., hotel. Todd said she chose the location because it coincided with the sex appeal, drama and aura of her gypsy-girl muse. The wind and elements of the open-air setting helped create the image of the girl and how her environment would feel. “I just thought you can’t go wrong; it’s gorgeous out there,” Todd said. The Los Angeles–based designer—perhaps best known for dressing Paris Hilton and Eva Longoria in some of television’s most notorious swimsuit moments—presented a collection nothing short of exotic. Floral prints, vibrant colors, black and whites, and subdued tones breezed down the runway in sexy shapes with a multitude of feminine ruffles. Light cottons and silk chiffons created sexy, easy-to-wear rompers, dresses and luxurious separates. The look was sheer glamour with hints of gold, beading, braiding and tassels galore. —N.J.S.
