Feminine collection Max and Lubov Azaria presented the BCBG autumn/winter 2012-13 collection at New York Fashion Week. Continuing from the label’s spring/summer 2012 offering, colour blocking was a key message. Embellishment was sparse. The emphasis was on geometric shapes, intricate pleats and unexpected mixes of fabrics, including several pieces with patchwork-style pieces of recycled-but-real fur.

Textures of chiffon, georgette and silks kept the clothes feminine and were accessorised with leather, suede and snakeskin clutches and shoulder bags, which matured the look. Shift and waisted dresses with pleated skirts, as well as blouses, tunics and wide-legged trousers, used a palette of sophisticated black, biscuit, cream, merlot, burgundy and navy, accented with flashes of jade green, turquoise, coral and ochre.

In the notes prepared for the retailers, editors and stylists who descended upon Lincoln Center's Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week tents for the first of eight days of previews, the Azrias said they were using the palette and textures "to add character."