New York Fashion Week :: Project Alabama [The ZOO]

Project Alabama :: Spring Summer 2006

What a breath or fresh country air! Natalie Chanin's first runway show proved to be the beginning of a long lasting relationship between her and New York Fashion Week. Nominated for the 2005 Fashion Design Award from New York's Cooper Hewitt Museum and one of the finalists for the CDFA/Vogue Fashion Fund award, the crowd of fans and editors all anticipated a great show ... which is just what they got. As the crowd poured into the UPS Hub, a trio of young musicians played some old country favorites to get the crowd in an Alabama state of mind. Once the show began, it was clear after two pieces that it did not matter what state of mind you where in ... Paris, Milan, London or New York, you were going to love the show. Hand quilted skirts paired with fitted cardigans had just the right embellishments; whether it was subtle crystal beading or rich embroidered patterns, the look was always polished. Full skirts in bright prints of red, yellow and shades of blue looked down right charming with a flattering belted coat. Unlike many of the shows during Fashion Week, every piece at Project Alabama was extremely wearable and practical. As the crowd moseyed out of the show, you could not help but over hear everyone sign praises for the collection. 'Sweet home Alabama' is right!! [Meghan Casey]