Willie Nelson’s “Blue Skies” fittingly opened Mara Hoffman’s Spring/Summer 2016 collection as the first several looks were head to toe ensembles of a blue sky screen printed fabric. The rest of the runway show’s soundtrack, comprised of Willie Nelson songs, exuded an air of Southwestern America.

The collection consisted of various fabric groups and each new group was introduced by a change in song. Hoffman did a brilliant job of keeping the collection’s cohesive regardless of the differing fabric choices. After the blue sky screen printed looks, were an assortment of rainbow striped looks, then exotic floral ensembles graced the runway followed by traditional Western looks with white embroidered separates. The collection concluded with feminine maxi dress in summer linens and soft colors.

One standout look was a rainbow striped halter jumpsuit that appeared to be a maxi dress at first glance.  After the model had walked past, viewers saw the exposed backside of the cascading halter top which was attached to a pair of skinny pink pants.

Mara Hoffman succeeded in adding unexpected surprises in every look. Whether that be the pairing of unexpected patterns, adding texture to the simplest linen two piece set or accessorizing a maxi dress fit for a beach resort with a cowboy hat and bolo tie.

Each model’s hair was as long as their elongated torsos and neatly placed into two braids, topped off with a thick band of fabric that matched the dominant fabric of each ensemble.

Nigel Barker, noted fashion photographer, and Orange is the New Black’s Dascha Polanco were in attendance.

Overall, Mara Hoffman’s Spring/Summer 2016 collection was a breath of fresh air, proved that West is truly Best and a trend to be reckoned with in the upcoming season.

Gabriella Bower is an editor. Email her at [email protected]