Click for more looks from A Détacher Spring/Summer 2014.

Loud and tonal music blasted as the lights went on at the A Détacher Spring/Summer 2014 show and the first model entered the runway wearing a loose and silky black and white ensemble.  Nine minutes later the lights dimmed as the final model exited the runway wearing a dress quite similar and fitting with the first.  However, what came in between was more of a mélange.  While many of the outfits were unique and pleasing, there were just too many completely different styles incorporated into the show.  There were ponchos, jumpsuits, heavy knit dresses, fine silk skirts and pants, summer plaids and shiny bathing suits, just to name a few.  While designer Monika Kowalska’s creations were original, the collection was rather scattered.

However, individually the vast majority of the outfits were beautiful.  Kowalska is never afraid to mix patterns and textures and she did so seemingly effortlessly by pairing a blue and tan, silk, schoolgirl plaid skirt with a hole-ridden tan and black sweater.  The show was filled with diverse textures.  One fantastic look was a fluffy, navy blue sweater worn over a silk, mauve bathing suit.  Another particularly impressive outfit showcasing multiple textures was an oversized sweater dress that incorporated a heavy black knit with a delicate, wide, mesh trim.

While the show’s spectators may have found the collection lacking in cohesion, the clothing was refreshingly wearable.  As she always does, Kowalska showed that the A Détacher woman can mix it up in her unusual knits, and even look sexy in her oversized dresses.

Rose Gilroy is a contributing writer. Email her at [email protected].