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The show notes for the Herve Leger spring 2013 show yesterday included one curious detail: That the collection was inspired by Alabama, which might not be the first state that comes to mind when you think of skin tight bandage dresses. Apparently, Max Azria drew inspiration from the quiltmaking women of Gee's Bend, and the collection is meant to depict the "sultry South through handcrafted embroidery, patchwork and appliqué fused with signature couture techniques."
The color palette was mostly neutral, with whites, browns, and pale greys dominating the runway. And when they said sultry South they weren't kidding: Several of the dresses included built-in harnesses that were worn over the backs of the models' necks and fastened at the waist like a belt. Bursts of blue also made an appearance, keeping with Pantone's predictions that we'll all be drenched in the color next spring.
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