Each season Tia Cibani for Ports 1961 takes her audience on an exotic journey and for her Fall 2009 collection, the voyage was deep in India—specifically the “enigmatic past of the Mughal Dynasty” where thick flowing tapestry fabrics and shiny gold hues created an evocative and enchanting experience, enlivened by the full brass Panjabi orchestra. 

The collection displayed a sophisticated and exquisite take on the vibrancy of India’s regal past where billowing silhouettes were juxtaposed with structured dresses of thick carpet-like fabric. 

There was a true beauty and art in the clothes that marked them as timeless pieces.  The collection was ultimately successful because Cibani paid attention to the intricacies not only of the fabric with which she was dealing, but also the culture that she manifested so expertly.

Adrien Field

Images courtesy of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week