If you've been riding with Sicka Than Average for a while now, you might remember my coverage of the debut Lia Lintern collection last October. Back then, I told you a bit about the genial work of structural-aerospace-engineer-turned-fashion-designer Julia Lintern (talk about a woman who is in tune with the left and right sides of her brain, right?) and her glamorous, romantic, Victorian-esque coat designs. One year later, the Lia Lintern line continues to gain momentum with a sophomore collection that dazzles and wows as much as its predecessor (and trust: the debut collection set a remarkably high standard!).
The sophomore collection consists of five coat styles, among them the "Geneva" (pictured in red, at top), which might just be my idea of the perfect coat— from the Maraschino cherry red color to the cozy cashmere wool, the pin tuck details along the front and back, the retro belt, the A-line skirt, the large but tailored cuffs and that dramatic, oversize collar, this piece reminds me of the blue coat Betty Draper wore on Mad Men (which had these thick, rounded lapels that could be turned upward and popped into a collar-like form) and yet the sculpted details in this piece add a modern, artsy quality.
Perhaps the style that most resembles last year's collection is the "Odessa," a cashmere wool blend coat with side button closures and Trapunto lattice lace work along the waistline (which is perfectly executed so as to create snowflake-like shapes). It reminds me a bit of last year's "Anna K" coat, which also features detailed Trapunto lattice work along the front of the coat (in the the chest area) and side buttons. The "Odessa," however, features a shorter hemline, more relaxed sleeves (as opposed to the "Anna K"'s structured cuffs) and a more casual collar (instead of the "Anna K" funnel collar).
Another standout piece is the "Sofia" (pictured second from top), which resembles a turtleneck dress at first sight, with its simple, embellishment-free front — but, one look at the back of the coat, and you'll see where the drama comes in, as it features a corset design with cascading ribbons for an added romanticism. Hidden side closures make the design way more wearable and user-friendly, while creating the most extravagant of illusions.
And if the fairy tale-ready designs aren't enough to transform you into a Lia Lintern fan, check this out: every single one of these coats i custom designed for the customer so that, instead of having to squeeze your unique body shape into a pre-determined silhouette and abide by some designer's sizing guidelines, you can send in your exact bust, waist and hip measurements and have the coat made to fit your body — not the other way around. All you need now is for the coat to dry clean itself, and you'll have the perfect winter fashion invention!
Lia Lintern Geneva coat, $625; Lia Lintern Sofia coat, $645; Lia Lintern Odessa coat, $695; Lia Lintern Medina coat, $695. Visit LiaLintern.com
