Los Angeles Fashion Week Fall I 2003: Sterling Capricio
Two 12-feet-tall, stilted Gothic figures opened Los Angeles designer Sterling Capricio’s Gothic Soul Review fashion show, played out on April 6 at the Church of Scientology’s castle-like Celebrity Centre in Hollywood. That first act foreshadowed what was to come from the designer, who is known for his urban couture.
For Fall 2003, Capricio drew inspiration from Maria Callas and Billie Holliday to design a collection of full-length coats, capes, man-tailored suits, lacy tunics and sweater sets. He offered all-black sets topped with full-length mohair coats to create Goth looks and added funk with knit caps, lacy shirts and blouses, and skinny pants topped with big plaid coats.
Capricio, who said he wanted to create heavier looks that will appeal to a more national customer, displayed plenty of draped capes and knitwear in addition to his organza and chiffon blouses, denim and cargo pants. He also added pucker-knit and cashmere sweaters to the collection. Coats came in full and 7/8 lengths in black, cognac and cream mohair, and most had reverse cuts.
Capricio said when he designed the collection, he had in mind an edgy woman who does not get caught up in one look.
“She’s a bit contradictory,” he said.
The designer will roll out a ready-to-wear collection at the Fall II market. —Robert McAllister
