The power of red was sizzling hot on the runway as Akris, the Swiss fashion house, presented its fall/winter 2016 collection at the High Museum of Art. Creative Director Albert Kriemler found inspiration from a trip to Kenya where the colors of the fauna and Savannah opened his creative juices to incorporate deep reds, oranges and aubergine into his pieces.
A third-generation family-owned 90-year-old business, Akris designs are renowned for their simplicity, innovative embroidery, digital printing techniques and architectural structure. The clothes are sold in 500 outlets across of the world in major department stores, such as Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue, as well as Akris boutiques in North America, Europe and Asia. In August, it opened its sixth North American boutique in the Shops of Buckhead.
"We know there is a certain sophistication the women of Atlanta possess, which is why we are so excited to have our own boutique here in Buckhead," said Kriemler. "And, we have already seen a very positive reaction to our presence in this market. We've seen a strong response to both Akris and Akris punto, as well as our accessories collection in Buckhead. We see that these collections really speak to the Southern woman."
The Akris woman, Kriemler said, "thinks of fashion as an investment in her personal and professional well-being and poise. She is a fashion-minded woman in business, the arts and society. Each season we incorporate a variety of colors and prints in luxurious fabrics with sophisticated tailoring."
Akris has a sportier sister line called Akris punto. The difference between the two is that Akris is a "balance of femininity, sleek sophistication and purpose while Akris punto is a mix and match of wardrobe essentials for the spirited on-the-go woman," he said.
Kriemler's designs are effortless and sleek, and signature accessories include the trapezoidal Ai bag made of Mongolian horsehair. Designs are also known for their innovative embroidery and digital photo prints. The prints were first used in the spring/summer 2009 collection and they quickly became a signature of the house.
"They have really become a collector's item because they are unique and specific to each collection, giving the impression of a series," said Kriemler.
The clothes were certainly well received by the special invitation-only audience at the High Museum who appreciated the technical fabrications, vivid prints and intricate details that define the collection.
The fashion show, which supported the Woodruff Arts Center, featured some of Kriemler's favorites from the line. "The Drinking Zebra printed tunic dress and leather palette snake print dress are must-haves from the collection," he said. "The fabrics should also be highlighted, including the chunky cashmere cape, velvet jogging suit and leather jacket with Masai detail."
About the Author
