Sergio Davila Spring 2009
Sergio Davila Spring 2009

NEW YORK, Sep 11, 2008 / FW/ — Starting from a little hole in the wall shop in downtown Manhattan, Sergio Davila created his fashion business from scratch. He was the designer, the tailor, and the entrepreneur.

So, perhaps, it is only fitting that his debut collection at Bryant Park was inspired by his European grandparents who immigrated to South America and his own decision to seek a new life here in New York.

And, so far, he has been very successful – from a small downtown shop to the tents might be a short trek in terms of miles, but an uphill journey for any emerging designers. Sergio Davila is triumphant in that aspect.

The collection he presented Monday was only halfway there though. Showing both menswear and womenswear collection, Sergio Davila demonstrated that he could actually be a competent designer for both. His knits, for both men and women were his strong points.

Proposing hoodies, dress tees for women and V-neck pullovers for men, the knitwear collection is very wearable and commercially viable. On the other hand, the men’s suits still need some work done to be able to compete in the very discerning luxury menswear market.

The cut has potential, but the sleeves still need some adjustment. Perhaps, with a better technical designer and patternmaker, this shortcoming can easily be solved. But, other than the suit sleeves, it was a winning collection overall in terms of commercial viability.

[MARI DAVIS]
Photo courtesy of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week