Anya Caliendo’s “Ghost Gardens” – NYFW September 2014

Right this way to the “Dior Suite”…

Lips, macaroons, aluminum leaves, feathers and pearls. Those are some of the key traditional and nontraditional elements that make up New York milliner Anya Caliendo’s Spring/Summer 2015 collection-“Ghost Gardens.”

The “Ghost Gardens” collection, showcased in the strikingly luxurious “Dior Suite” in the St. Regis New York hotel; was inspired by illusions, memories, and shadows from the past, or possibly forgotten memories, a first love lost, or a forbidden kiss. The collection was a tribute to the art of millinery, an encapsulated collection of couture gowns to enhance the millinery collection. Bright double-sided cashmere jackets and shimmery silk georgette skirts took center stage, which gave us an exciting experience along with the dazzling hats. It was literally like stepping into a 1950s Grace Kelly movie.

Anya Caliendo is a Russian-American designer, based in New York. She studied millinery under Queen Elizabeth’s personal milliner Mrs. Rose Cory, and Mr. Stephen Jones a while after. She went on to create hats for Donna Karan, Christian Dior, Comme des Garcons and other fashion industry notables.

This past year marks five remarkable years for the atelier. She handcrafts every piece herself and does not use a single machine-stitch or glue. Her style is impeccable. Naturally, I was honored to have been asked to attend her NYFW show.