A Most Spectacular Afffair
All eyes were on the latest Hollywood go-to labels at New York Fashion Week SS20, and A-list stylists looked no further than Afffair!
A staple for the next red carpet showstopper, Afffair’s latest collection came to life on the runway through a movement of pastel textiles such as organza, silk, crêpe chiffon and mesh embellished with crystal embroidery. This designer’s label included an array of avant-garde pieces showcasing everything from head-to-toe fringe, that framed each body exquisitely, to ruffles and pleated sheer fabric strategically placed to hug every curve. It was a clear display of sensuality and elegance.
The designer, Rufat Ismayil, stayed true to his cultural DNA; inspired by the rare orchid that grows exclusively in his home country, Azerbaijan, the Kahri Bulbul. The color story of the collection showcased shades of purple, lilac, mint, pink, tangerine and off-white.
Inspired by a trip Ismayil took to North America where he was mesmerized by the Monarch Butterfly, each piece is as unique as the butterfly’s intricate wings; lace details abounded in sultry pantsuits to cocktail dresses expertly merging lace and velvet. Standout pieces included a lace-belted pantsuit and the finale piece, worn by Turkish supermodel, Tülin Sahin, a black velvet long sleeve evening gown with a voluminous ruche bottom in a deep goldenrod. Earlier in the show, Sahin also strolled out in a two-piece ensemble complete with a beaded midriff bomber jacket and a satin emerald pleated skirt, embodying a sophisticated “school girl”.
Afffair, known most for dressing sultry celebs on the red carpet like Beyoncé, Jennifer Lopez, Bebe Rexha, Becky G, Ashanti, Lil’ Kim, Tessa Hilton, Fantasia, Hannah Stocking and Lala Kent, showcased a lineup featuring petal cut outs, intricate embroidery, and mesh details throughout each look - all exemplified in the confident, romantic, and strong-willed woman who would wear them.
Every piece from this SS20 collection resembled the beautiful Kahri Bulbul, whether in form or color - accessorized with crystal headpieces, earrings, embroidered tulle gloves, and heels adorned with feathers. Like the delicate but rare flower, the intricacy of each piece grazed the runway, capturing the attention of all eyes in the room. The one-of-a-kind looks ranged from cocktail mini dresses to sophisticated floor length gowns that will surely be anticipated on many red carpets to come.
The collection featured accessories and shoes by Melisa Erkol for Afffair. The sleek low ponies and glossy hair looks were provided by Wella, led by Wella global stylist, Aubrey Loots. Makeup provided by Makeup Beauty Academy led by Andrea Sigrist, showcased a mix of natural dewy faces with bold eye shadows; corresponding with each look from the collection. Rounding out the beauty category, statement pastel nails featured a pressed flowery by nail team Yukie Natori NY Spa & Salon.
Every seat in the house was filled. Notable guests WWE wrestler CJ Perry, "Love & Hip Hop" star Myra Lee, Miss USA Chelsie Kryst, recording artist and social media star Jerriko Karlae, US Soccer player Ricky Lopez-Espin "Real Housewives of New Jersey" star Jennifer Aydin, and "Orange Is the New Black" star Francesca Curan all sat front row for the Spring/Summer 2020 collection.
Photographs © imaxtree.com and Getty Images for Afffair