Joanna Mastroianni’s collections always reflect her unique sense of style.

By: Mitra Asgarinik

Her Fall 2008 collection was inspired by Middle Eastern culture and architecture, Morocco in particular.

Enthused by the exquisite arabesques of Moorish architecture, Mastroianni’s collection reflected the intricate grillwork and delicate inlaid tiles of Moroccan mosques and other structures. Beading was prevalent in almost every piece, which imitated the complex designs of Moroccan culture.

Keeping in line with Fashion Week favorites of black, brown, and copper colors, the collection stood out with its use of lime and lapis lazuli blue. As always, the collection included fabulous chiffon, silk, and embroidered lace, which flowed about the models as they worked the runway. Several pieces were layered with fabrics, but were transparent and allowed for the model’s body to peer from underneath. Other pieces were fond of loose, puffed sleeves and scalloped trims that mimicked seashells that might be found on the Moroccan coast.

Unique capes were the highlight of the collection. Mastroianni implemented a fairy tale-like gold beaded cape, with a hood that made a teardrop shape from the model’s head. The capes also had interesting arm holes, which were located not on the side or top of the garment, but in the torso. “Fashion is meant to be fun”, says the designer, and she definitely had an upbeat collection this season with her quirky fabrics and distinctive cuts.