Last night I saw Zooey Deschanel, part of my favorite new indie rock duo, She & Him, and one of the most charming things about the actress-cum-singer's performance was her '50s-inspired get up. Which reminded me of another of my favorite twosomes—Caroline Hedaya and Donna Baxter, former FIT classmates and the emerging designers behind ladylike label of the moment Caroline Hedaya by Donna and Caroline.

What has us girls so infatuated? While the classic silhouettes have an understated sex appeal, a healthy dose of frills gives each frock a youthful spin and ensures that the tone stays light. "These are really special pieces that should be worn at a gala or a museum party," Hedaya, a Manhattan native, has said. "It's for a free-spirited woman who has a sense of humor. It's fashion. We're not looking to be so serious." Baxter, a Long Island girl with a history in the underground music scene, lends both practicality and a little rock 'n roll edge to the young label, ensuring that each piece is both fresh and flattering.

And the Spring/Summer 2008 collection does not disappoint. Thanks to a muted palette of cream and peach—with a sprinkling of bold navy thrown in for good measure—sometimes silly pieces remain grounded and grown-up. With skirts full and ruffles aplenty, these dresses are just the thing to throw on for a saucy spring fling—you'll look sweet and swoon worthy, but when you're breaking his heart come summertime, prove that you're anything but.

Caroline Hedaya by Donna and Caroline is available at Milk, 8209 West 3rd Street, (323) 951-0330.

- Caroline Stanley

Similar Topics:Emerging Designer, fashion, shopping, spring 2008

comments (0) : Send to a Friend : Subscribe

:  digg this :  del.icio.us! :