Titled Luminary City, designer Monica Wesley has crafted a well-edited collection of pieces that are equal parts luminous and urban. Designed to blend the boundaries between lingerie, clothing, and jewelry, Uye Surana's pieces are meant to be layered for a look as individual as the wearer. Soft ruffles, linear harnesses, ombre techniques, and subtle graphic cutouts all come together in a free spirited and dynamic way. A rich, unexpected color palette is paired with ethereal fabrics and faceted crystals for a look that is refreshingly distinctive.
Bralettes are not only cool and comfortable, they're an easy way to inject a bit of personality into your lingerie wardrobe. And these by Uye Surana are exceptionally pretty. Sheer mesh cups are embellished with eyelash lace for an ethereal look that is romantic without being too fussy. Two part cups have been expertly patterned to provide individual fit for four cup sizes, A-D. A wide elastic band creates stability and is encased in gathered silk for sheen and texture. Matching panties showcase the lace in a V pattern on the rear and play with texture and transparency.
The camisole is crafted of sheer mesh to allow for transparency and encourage layering. A wide silk band sits just below the rib cage to create a crop top that can easily be worn as outerwear. The back features a slit that closes with a hook and eye closure and allows for a peek of skin while creating a lovely vertical line. The mesh ruffle harness also easily transitions from boudoir to outerwear. Flirty and feminine, it is designed to frame the body and add volume. Hidden elastic along the back panel hugs the lower back, while a silk satin neckline and sleek adjustable back strap add polish.
The collection also includes a variety of silk frame bras, chokers, and body chains that convert into lingerie harnesses. The inclusion of clear quartz, rose quartz, and amethyst point pendants add a bohemian vibe which is charming and contributes to the brand's non-conformist aesthetic. The most successful and versatile of these is in the form of a necklace bra. A delicate chain mimics a frame bra shape and connects to a thin silk band that completes the shape. It is really pretty layered over the lacy bralettes, though would be equally interesting worn over little tanks or dresses.
It's worth noting that the designer has photographed the collection with her iPhone 6 with the idea of the female gaze in mind. It is important to Wesley that the wearer have ownership over her beauty, that she celebrate her self-creating spirit and individuality. This stripped down approach has an empowering honesty and immediacy that is as unique as the collection itself. Product photograhy is often in the form of selfies as well, with social media manager Lohla Jani acting as both model and face of the brand.
Bras are available in band sizes 32-36 with cup sizes A-D. The remainder of the collection is sized XS-XL (fitting busts from 31-42" and hips from 33-43"). Bras are priced $59-98, bottoms from $35-60, and harnesses/frame bras from $38-80.
What do you think of Uye Surana's SS15 collection? Do you have a favorite look? Are you excited to see the line between lingerie and fashion blend?