Ethnic prints, tribal jewelries, oversized coats and jackets and disordered layering are the four key elements in Laura Siegel’s Fall/Winter 2013 presentation. One by one models wearing chunky wedges strode across the room then stood on the pedestals lined up in the showroom. The show was held in the artsy Chelsea Highline Loft, a venue well chosen, which coincided with the designer’s organic and hippy style.

The whole collection was free-spirited and unconventional. Crimson and hunter green are the two main colors of this collection. The show started with a look consisting of a maxi skirt and an asymmetrical tank top, which extended to an oversized scarf, all in the color crimson with hand sew embroidery in tribal patterns. This look was mirrored in hunter green on another model, except harem pants replaced the maxi skirt. Models were wearing crimson lipsticks and had a line on the forehead extending form the hairline, bringing ethnic and futuristic chic to the looks.

After studying fashion design at Parsons, Siegel began to create her uniquely ethnic and diverse aesthetic. Her designs showcase her skills in knitting, natural dyeing, and embroidery. Based in New York, Siegel regularly travels to and incorporates handmade accessories and textiles from Asia and Latin America. What sets Siegel apart from the rest is her ability to design interesting garments while upholding her commitment to the environment. This collection, though consistent with her natural and cultural aesthetic, was far too similar to her previous ones and failed to excite.

Jewel Jiang is a contributing writer. Email her at [email protected].