César Galindo has awed fashionistas before, but the designer and master tailor has reached new heights with his most recent ready-to-wear collection, CZAR . As a renowned designer whose work has helped shape the creative vision for private clients ranging from Gwen Stefani, Dolce & Gabbana, Calvin Klein Collection and Madonna, the former Houston, Texas artist’s reputation for creating curve-conscious clothing with a fashion forward aesthetic is nearly unparalleled in the industry.
“The collection was inspired by a garden party theme,” said Galindo, speaking backstage just moments before his Spring/Summer 2013 runway show at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week. “It’s a very happy collection. Right now the way life is, if you can put something on that makes you feel better, that’s what it’s all about.” Click through to see exclusive behind-the-scenes moments from the show and runway photos of his brightly-colored, geometric print contemporary looks.
What is there to be stressed out about? A model and makeup artist share a laugh backstage during show preparations. Galindo’s designs were accented dewy faces, strong eyebrows, pink flushed cheeks and strong pastel lip color.
A model sits patiently as a hairstylist slicks back her thick hair in a ponytail. The signature look at the CZAR collection was a sleek ponytail, worn high on the head with contrasting colored bangs. Scared to rock the look? It’s all about confidence, says Galindo. “All the women in my life from my mother to my five sisters, were full of confidence. Confidence will always shine.”
A model smiles backstage during the hours preceding the show. Smiles were abundant backstage, including by the collection’s designer. “I’ve lived in New York City for 25 years and coming to Lincoln Center for my own show is a dream come true,” says Galindo. “It’s my show and my clothes – a surreal experience.”
A brocade halter dress works for a variety of body shapes – something Galindo intended with his contemporary brand. “I’m having fun with these clothes with the way it can appeal to many different women,” says the designer. “It’s easy and sexy, accessible. I want my nieces to be able to buy these clothes!”
No need to go on a diet to look great in Galindo’s signature shift, as this silhouette looks great on everyone. And the bright, tropical blue is a nod to Galindo’s heritage. “In Latino culture, we’re known for color no matter what,” explains Galindo. “Even at a funeral, we’ll wear color to celebrate a person’s life and that element of my culture always comes out in my work.”
It’s all about bright colors and relaxed cuts for next season, as evidenced by this cheerful pink graphic print dress, one of several easy-to-wear looks in Galindo’s newest CZAR by Cesar Galindo collection. “A great, loose dress is so easy,” says Galindo. “I love designing and making clothes that make people feel good.”
Galindo is best known for his dress designs but in his Spring/Summer 2013 collection experimented with suit silhouettes. This peridot iridescent twill jacket and matching short is emblematic of his vision.
A multi-colored, finely-wove tank top is accented by a tangerine iridescent twill slim pant is characteristic of Galindo’s wearable approach to fashion. “My collection is designed to go from work to play, and that’s a reflection of what’s going on socially,” says Galindo.
Galindo takes to the runway and thanks the packed auditorium for its overwhelmingly positive reaction to his newest collection for CZAR by Cesar Galindo.
