NEW YORK, Aug 30, 2010 / FW/ — With a religious title “Semana Santa” (Spanish for Holy Week), Manuel de la Cruz takes inspiration from the traditions of his native Guatemala for his Spring / Summer 2011 collection.
Synonymous with Lent, “Semana Santa” celebrates Christ’s sacrifice as depicted on the “Stations of the Cross” or “Way of Sorrows” or “The Passion”. In Guatemala, the people show their devotion to their faith by marching down the cobbled streets carrying figurines representing lifelike scenes from The Passion.
According to de la Cruz, this is by far the most colorful and fascinating time in his homeland, as the purple and black ensembles worn by the natives gave birth to the imaginative genius of Manuel’s collection.
In his collection, Manuel incorporates black, purple, light blue, and baby pink to create a chic and sophisticated allusion to the colorful nature of the tradition.
The women’s collection will be accented by hand embroidered belts and will include sheer cocktail dresses in soft silky blended fabrics such as chiffon, silk cotton, double face duchess satin, silk Georgette and French lace.
The men’s collection will consist of tailored pieces with a modern allusion to classic shapes. The materials utilized will include wool blends for the suits, and contrasting silk duchess satin for the jackets as well as trousers.
From the emotional nature of Semana Santa, Manuel creates a theme that reflects the passion and darkness of this intriguing custom.
Also, during the show, De la Cruz will launch a new line of shoes, swimwear and t-shirts that will complement the existing suits and dresses in his current collection.
MANUEL DE LA CRUZ Spring 2011
Saturday, Sep 11, 2010 at 8:00 PM
Metropolitan Pavilion
123 West 18th Street
New York, NY 10011
