Moody electro beats shook Milk Studios as a sea of Patrik Ervell-clad models zipped down the runway, stomping through scaffolding with the speed and fervor of the flashing bulbs from the photo pit. The young designer kept it to basics with innate classic style and a clear vision, articulated throughout the show, as he paired the downtown-friendly duds in burnt oranges and tropical reds with male models and their classy yet severe gelled comb-overs. Oversized linen trenches and hooded raincoats flowed, chic, tailored blazers paired with pleated khakis impressed and the handful of beautiful, futuristic Hawaiian hand-painted prints silk shirts and dresses would appeal to even the less fashionably-forward. That’s the thing about Ervell’s collection: while there were personal highlights (like a gorgeous female model rocking a silk romantic red sleeveless jumpsuit), the show felt like a wearable wardrobe, not a smoke-and-mirrors spectacle. The slimy season and the humid subway stations is a fashionista nightmare, but Ervell utilised light fabrics (linens, silks, ivory cotton) and cuts (short-sleezed sweat shirts, shorts) to keep us cool. The styling was consistent: leather baseball caps, an array of bags (a midnight blue lambskin bag to canvas duffles) and lucite heels. The reserved designer, rarely seen on red carpets unlike many of his design peers, barely embraced the applause after his army of models descended backstage and the lights dimmed on the city-like scaffolding. Ervell’s program notes ended with his inspiration: “Even in the most sanitized version of New York City, there’s still always a little bit of dirt in the corner.” But, for those in attendance, he didn’t need to explain.
Text: Alex Catarinella
Photography: Brian DePinto
