Enamored by old Hollywood film stars, and informed by her own work as a former model, Katheryn Rice has sought out to do what so few do well – to create a line of barely-there wardrobe necessities. Carmella’s beautiful silhouettes are at once intimate and romanticized, hugging a woman in all the right places with a drape that’s sure to turn heads. “I’ve been fortunate enough to have the opportunity to wear so many different designers that I have a strong understanding of what feels good to wear,” the designer told Team Zoe. “From which fabrics feel good on the body, to colors that will accentuate the skin, to the way a garment falls on the body.”
From left: Portia Dress, $574; Simona Dress, $670, Elicia Pants, $597, Vida Crop Top, $314.
With standout pieces including the skin-baring Simona dress, the ’90s-era Portia dress and cool separates like the Elicia pants, the collection is comprised solely of fabrics that feel like second skin, including silk chiffons, CDC, silk crepes and French lace that exudes a vintage sex appeal. And not one to settle, Rice’s added the personalized touch of vintage-inspired buttons in lieu of zippers and delicate ties in place of adjusters. “Carmella has a certain elegance but is not conservative,” she continued. “It’s playful and womanly at the same time.” Translation: We’re ready to turn back time in any Carmella design.
Availability: Available at shopcarmella.net and select boutiques including Shopbop, Curve LA & NY and Satine.
