BEST IN SHOW: Chic Looks From Harlem’s Fashion Row Fall 2013 Capsule Collections

This fashion week season, Harlem’s Fashion Row showcased capsule collections of seven black designers: Chantell Walters, Deirdre Jefferies of her Epsion line, Kimberly Goldson, Evelyn Lambert, Shauntele, Sandro Romans, and Kahindo Mateene of her Modahnik line at the famed Apollo theater.

For the 6th annual show, judges included Tyson Beckford, Bethann Hardison, and Bullett Magazine’s Editor-in-Chief, Idil Tabanca. Both the judges and public will decide which four of these hopefuls will go on to show full collections next Spring 2014 season. Of the seven, two in particular caught our eye: Brooklyn native and Project Runway Season 9 finalist, Kimberly Goldson, and one of Ebony Magazine’s 2012 “Top 12 Designers to Watch”, Deidre Jefferies.

Kimberly Goldson impressed many last night with her standout, Michelle Obama-inspired collection. This surely wasn’t her first trip down the runway as she had the opportunity to show a 10-look collection at Mercedes Benz Fashion Week last season, during the Project Runway finale. This time, Goldson sent a collection of vibrant separates and office-ready dresses in shades of purple, pink, and gold. In addition to rich solids, there was also a mix of pretty florals, best seen on a tailored eggplant suit, which drew applause at first sight. Other standouts included a pink and black frock and cutout striped dress. Zoe Saldana would be Goldson’s pick to rock her line.

For her Fall 2013 capsule collection, Espion designer, Deidre Jefferies was inspired by masculine and feminine elements. The vibe was dark and edgy, comprised of black leather and latex with vibrant pops of yellow. Jefferies who has over 10 years of experience in the industry, showed her knack for detail and futuristic flair in an array of silhouettes. Standout looks included a full length leather peplum detailed gown, yellow Peter Pan collared dress, and a sequined bodycon frock. One can definitely see Rihanna gravitating towards Espion’s sexy pieces.