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New Designer Spotlight: Rae Francis Mixes Edgy and Feminine

Rae Francis designers Ariel Lilly and Christina Coniglio describe their made in New York City line as "uptown chic meets downtown cool." "[We mix] feminine pieces with hardness," says Ariel, who explains the brand's name is a combination of Ariel's middle name and Christina's father's name.

Rae Francis designers Christina (left) and Ariel (right). Photo by Tracy E. Hopkins

For fall, the duo who met while studying fashion design at the Savannah College of Art and Design, were inspired by New York City and the collection includes feminine fabrics such as silk and chiffon fused with leathers and plaids.  Ariel, 25, is originally from Boston, Massachusetts and brings her precision and keen eye for detail to the line, while Palm Beach, Florida native Christina, 26, adds deconstructed elements such as raw finishes and cutouts.




Looks from the Rae Francis Fall 2012 collection.

"We don't like tight clothes," says Christina. Instead, Rae Francis favors sexy, flowing blouses, wide-legged pants and dresses that are effortlessly sophisticated.

For ease and comfort -- a thread throughout the girls' laid-back, Boho leaning style -- tailored pieces are combined with unstructured shapes. The Fall 2012 collection also gives a nod to '90s grunge with flannel hoods and shirts with eye-catching piping details.

Prices range from $127 - $453 and are available at select boutiques in New York City.

Comments

  1. Wow, I love this feminine and edgy comb for the fall!

    For the summer I favor a Rock Fish dress, which I featured on my own blog: http://thesavvvyshopper.blogspot.com/2012/07/m-mac-rock-fish-dress.html.

    For the fall, I especially love the Rae Francis black number.

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