Roberto Cavalli opened an exhibit at NorthPark Center on Aug. 29. (Courtesy of Alexandra Small)
Flash bulbs pop as statuesque figures pose in various stances, wearing the most beautifully crafted gowns glimmering with intricate beading and delicately placed feathers. A crowd of people come to gawk and gasp at the beautiful creations while forming a large circle around the spectacle. It would appear to an outsider that the crowd was viewing a red carpet event taking place, however upon closer inspection would discover they were only partially correct.
Roberto Cavalli’s exhibit at NorthPark Center is one to behold. Sixteen of his most well-known red carpet gowns are on display on gangly white mannequins.
A replica pit of photographers makes up the center, complete with actual flashes and sounds, giving the viewer a feel of actually witnessing celebrities being photographed on the red carpet. Ken Jalencia, store manager at NorthPark’s Roberto Cavalli, said the exhibit’s setup was “beautiful, simple but effective.”
The exhibit, which began Aug. 29 and runs through Sept 12 located in the SouthCourt between Neiman Marcus and Dillard’s, has drawn in fashion lovers and curious mall goers alike from all around Texas. The dresses featured have reigned the red carpet from 2003 to 2012 and have walked all kinds of events, from movie premieres to Golden Globes to charity galas. They show a broad spectrum of Cavalli’s handiwork, which is always lady-like and glamorous.
Cavalli, 71, is an Italian fashion designer, originally born in Florence, Tuscany. He began showcasing his creations in 1970 on the runway in Paris and since then his name has been synonymous with sensuality, style, and luxury.
Jalencia describes the typical Cavalli client as being “young, sexy, playful and a jetsetter.”
Particularly well known for his exotic prints and bold colors, Cavalli is commonly seen being worn on the red carpet by A-list celebrities. His fans include Britney Spears, Jennifer Lopez, Cindy Crawford and Heidi Klum, all of which wore a dress currently featured within the exhibit.
While it might be hard for most to chose a favorite from the bunch, Jalencia is without hesitation, “Victoria Beckham’s gown, the print is fantastic.” Although it’s not as recognized as some of the others, it is absolutely stunning in person. The blue and white gown features a traditional Chinese dragon print in front and intricate floral patterns around the back, and is completed with an elegant black ruffle peeking out at the bottom. The undeniable crowd-pleaser, however, was the crimson Megan Fox dress, featured in countless magazines and “Best Dressed” lists. “I loved it, I recognized it instantly,” exhibit viewer Carolyn Cooper, 31, said of the dress.
By viewing the dresses in person one not only is better equipped to see intricate details but can also see highly-regarded designs with a reputation of being feminine and elegant.
Libby Lowder, a student at SMU and longtime client recalls her first Cavalli encounter, “My mother was going out one night to some big event and she walked out of her room in this amazing black and gold zebra striped gown. I was maybe seven but I instantly knew that was exactly what I wanted to wear when I was older. It was beautiful.”
Jalencia agrees. When asked what makes Cavalli’s designs different from any other designer he specified, “his creative eye with color and print. It’s unmatched.”
What does Cavalli have in store for his clients in the upcoming season? Jalencia hints it will be, “new animal prints and a ’60s vibe.” As long as Cavalli continues to create what women want, shoppers will look forward to whatever Cavalli has in store for them. By looking at the past, shoppers might be able to see what the future holds for his work.
