08/16/07

Fashionistas looking to shed their somber New York uniforms come to this flagship store for sexy designs with Brazilian verve.

by Contributor

The Scene
The space is white and futuristic, calling to mind a 1960s groovy space-age bachelor pad, but Miele's own video installations sprinkled about lend a distinctly future-perfect feel to the space. The eponymous designer is known for employing artisans and seamstresses from poor areas of Brazil to promote creativity and independence among women in shantytowns.

The Goods
Throw off your NYC basic black and suit up for Carnivale in these brightly colored gowns and casual wear. Sheer, fringed, frayed, sequined and shell-adorned, anything goes with Carlos Miele's patchwork designs that scream fiesta. Most pieces are gorgeous (and priced prohibitively); other pieces are downright bizarre, (denim macramé bustier top, anyone?). Python accessories go well with the slightly ravaged runway look, and all the fashions are sexy if not always practical.