J’adore Chris Benz

Chris Benz’s SS11 presentation hit every right note.

Inside the Rubenstein Atrium across from Lincoln center The Beach Boys and Simon and Garfunkel played and Breathless‘s opening scene was projected behind the models while they danced and chatted. Inspired by the je ne sais quoi of an American traveling abroad to Paris, Chris Benz showed a collection that was sixties inspired with all of Benz’s signature styles.

Thinking about “everyone’s fantasy of being picked up by a cute boy in the back of a vespa and whizzing off and that freewheeling spirit,” Mr. Benz told us. He showed a collection that, while floral, was not for wallflowers. Chris’ sherbet colors mixed with brights and neons, while floral prints added dimension, particularly on a pair of blue-hued pants with matching Alejandro Ingelmo for Chris Benz shoes that both Julia and I were head over heels for. Lauren swooned over the pale yellow leather drawstring skirt, the sibling of Chris’ favorite piece, the electric blue leather dress, “I love the material–that funny lambskin,” he said.

There were plenty of separates in the form of tie neck blouses, pleated minis, and a few show stopping, flowing dresses. Everyone at the presentation was all smiles, including J. Crew creative director and Chris’ former boss, Jenna Lyons, who happily posed with the designer while pointing out her favorite pieces. If there were ever to be a Chris Benz x J. Crew collaboration, Fashionista would be the first girls on line.